The Particles は vs が
は and が can both mark the subject in Japanese sentences. However, は emphasizes the contrast, while が identifies something specific. Their use changes the nuance, especially in negative sentences.
は for Negative Emphasis
Using は in negative sentences often shows contrast or the speaker's expectation. For instance, '彼は来ません' (He will not come) suggests others might come, but he will not.
が for Specificity
が highlights a specific subject in negative sentences. '彼が来ません' (He is not coming) simply states a fact about him without implying anything about others.
Contextual Use of は
は can be used to negate a whole category. '猫は好きじゃない' means you generally don't like cats, suggesting other animals might be favored.
Implications of が
が can imply no one else is included in the negation. '誰が知らない?' (Who doesn't know?) expects that someone does know, focusing on who doesn't.
Negative Questions Nuance
Negative questions with は imply expectation of a negative response. '誰は来ませんか?' suggests you expect that someone will not come, while '誰が来ませんか?' seems more open.
Summary and Practice
Remember, は contrasts and sets expectations in negatives, while が specifies. Practice with sentences like '私はピザは食べませんが、寿司は食べます' to master the nuances.
Which particle emphasizes contrast?
が highlights specifics
は emphasizes contrast
は shows specificity
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