Sometimes you want to say something that isn’t just a statement. It’s an explanation. Other times, you want to ask not just “What happened?” but “Why did it happen?” The grammar point ～んです helps you do both. It lets you offer new information, explain things clearly, or even ask for clarification with a more thoughtful tone.
～んです
Used for explanations or asking for clarification
Usage Pattern
- Verb (short form) + んですんで
- い-adjective + んです んです
- な-adjective + な + んです
- Noun + な + んです
- For casual situations: use んだ (declarative) orの (interrogative)
Details
JLPT Level: N4
How to Use It
Use ～んです to add explanation or highlight that what you’re saying is new or important information. It can soften your tone or make your reasoning clearer. It’s especially useful when answering a “why” question, clearing up confusion, or confirming something you’ve guessed. The casual version ～んだ is used in friendly situations, and ～の is a casual way to ask explanatory questions.
Want A Deeper Explanation?
Example 1
ポルトガルで生まれたんです。
ぽるとがる で うまれた んです。
Porutogaru de umareta n desu.
I was born in Portugal. (That’s why I speak Portuguese.)
Example 2
納豆は買わなかったんです。
なっとう は かわなかった んです。
Nattō wa kawanakatta n desu.
I didn’t buy natto. (That’s why it’s not on the table.)
Example 3
結婚したんですか？
けっこん した んです か？
Kekkon shita n desu ka?
Did you get married?