GrammarN52 min read2026-02-17

じしょけい(辞書形)

The basic, unconjugated form of verbs used in dictionaries and casual speech.

Meaning

The dictionary form (辞書形) is the most basic form of Japanese verbs and the form you find when looking up words in a dictionary. All Group 1 verbs end in 'u' sounds, Group 2 verbs end in 'ru', and Group 3 verbs are くる and する. This form is commonly used in casual conversations between friends and family.

Formation

Part of speechFormation
1类动词以「u」段假名结尾:あう(见面)、あらう(洗)、おくる(送)、おわる(结束)、かつ(赢)、すわる(坐)
2类动词以「る」结尾:おぼえる(记住)、かんがえる(想)、でる(出去)、きる(穿)、ねる(睡)
3类动词くる(来)、する(做):そうじする(清扫)、でんわする(打电话)

Examples

  1. おかあさん:あした、だれと あうの。
    Mother: Tomorrow, who are you going to meet?

  2. むすめ:あした、ともだちと あう。
    Daughter: Tomorrow, I'm going to meet a friend.

Summary

  • Dictionary form is the base form of verbs found in dictionaries
  • Group 1 verbs end in 'u' sounds (あう, あらう), Group 2 in 'ru' (おぼえる, ねる), Group 3 are くる and する
  • Commonly used in casual situations between friends and family members

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