JLPT N2 reference · Advanced particles
に対して
It marks an action directed toward a target or sets up an explicit contrast between two sides.
Core meaning and form
Attach に対して to a noun; use に対する before another noun. Translate according to function: “toward,” “in response to,” or “whereas.”
- Form: Attach に対して to a noun; use に対する before another noun.
- Core use: It marks an action directed toward a target or sets up an explicit contrast between two sides.
- Context: Translate according to function: “toward,” “in response to,” or “whereas.”
Examples in context
学生の質問に対して、先生が答えた。Gakusei no shitsumon ni taishite, sensei ga kotaeta.The teacher answered the student’s question.
兄が社交的なのに対して、弟は静かだ。Ani ga shakōteki na no ni taishite, otōto wa shizuka da.Whereas the older brother is sociable, the younger is quiet.
環境問題に対する関心が高まっている。Kankyō mondai ni taisuru kanshin ga takamatte iru.Interest in environmental issues is increasing.
Common errors
- Do not select this pattern from an English translation alone; check its attachment and discourse function.
- Keep the surrounding sentence in a consistent plain, polite, spoken, or written register.
Quick summary
- Attach に対して to a noun; use に対する before another noun.
- It marks an action directed toward a target or sets up an explicit contrast between two sides.
- Translate according to function: “toward,” “in response to,” or “whereas.”