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
JLPT Level: N4
Want to actually remember this?
Practice it with spaced repetition and example sentences built from words you already know.
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.
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)
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?
Understanding it once is only the first step
With spaced review, personalized example sentences, and targeted grammar questions, Kotoba Kards helps you actually remember grammar and use it with confidence