Hello again,

We’re currently dissecting the causative form (使役形 - shiekikei) in my lessons with Sae, and it’s definitely living up to its reputation as one of the trickier grammar points in Genki 2.

The concept of “making someone do something” or “letting someone do something” seems straightforward enough, but the conjugations and the subtle differences in nuance are causing a fair bit of confusion. Which particle to use with whom? When is it making, when is it allowing? My brain is full of flowcharts!

Sae is very patient, and we’re going through lots of examples. Slowly, slowly, it’s starting to make a tiny bit more sense. This is definitely one of those grammar points that requires a lot of practice and exposure.

Feeling challenged,

Oliver

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