JLPT N4
たら
If / When ~
Structure
Verb た-form ら
How it works
The 'tara' form is a versatile conditional used to express 'if' or 'when'. It is formed by adding 'ra' to the plain past tense (ta-form) of verbs, adjectives, or nouns. It is often used when the speaker wants to focus on what happens after a specific condition is fulfilled.
Examples
雨が降ったら、行きません。
If it rains, I won't go.
日本に着いたら、電話してください。
When you arrive in Japan, please call me.
安かったら、買います。
If it is cheap, I will buy it.
Common mistakes
Don't confuse 'tara' with 'to' (natural consequence); 'tara' can be used for specific one-time requests or intentions, whereas 'to' cannot.
Tip
Think of 'tara' as 'once X happens, then Y'. It is the safest 'if' to use in conversation because it works for both hypothetical and certain future events.
More JLPT N4 grammar
See たら in real Japanese
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