JLPT N4 reference · て-form system
Forming the て-form
The て-form is a connective verb form used by many larger constructions.
Core meaning and form
Form verbs as 食べる → 食べて, 書く → 書いて, 読む → 読んで, and する → して. Godan sound changes must be learned by final kana; 行く is the exception 行って.
- Form: Form verbs as 食べる → 食べて, 書く → 書いて, 読む → 読んで, and する → して.
- Core use: The て-form is a connective verb form used by many larger constructions.
- Context: Godan sound changes must be learned by final kana; 行く is the exception 行って.
Examples in context
窓を開けて、空気を入れます。Mado o akete, kūki o iremasu.I open the window and let air in.
名前を書いてください。Namae o kaite kudasai.Please write your name.
駅まで歩いて行きました。Eki made aruite ikimashita.I walked to the station.
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
- Form verbs as 食べる → 食べて, 書く → 書いて, 読む → 読んで, and する → して.
- The て-form is a connective verb form used by many larger constructions.
- Godan sound changes must be learned by final kana; 行く is the exception 行って.