Nominalization - の, こと

It is possible to make a phrase work like a noun in a sentence. This is done by following the plain form of a verb with の (no), こと (koto) or (mono). However, if using の (no) in this way, then the particle の (no) cannot be used in the predicate.

In English grammar terms this construction is called to nominalize the verb, which turns it into a gerund.

• 私は読むのが好きです。
  Watashi wa yomu no ga suki desu.
  I like reading.
• 見ることは信じることです。
  Miru koto wa shinjiru koto desu.
  Seeing is believing.

Differences between -masu and no desu

Please notice that there may be differences in the nuances or even meaning of a sentence when using -masu or no desu. For instance, the usage of -masu form may be seen as a bit more formal.

(to be explained further)

Short Form - n

The nominalization particle の (no) can in some cases in casual language be abbreviated to (n).

 

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This page was orginally based on a part of "Some Notes on Japanese Grammar" published for your personal use, with the kind permission of Keith Smillie (http://www.cs.ualberta.ca/~smillie/)