JLPT N4
ておく
Do in advance / Leave as is
Structure
Verb て-form おく
How it works
This grammar point is used to describe an action performed in preparation for the future or a situation left as it is for a specific purpose. In casual speech, 〜ておく often contracts to 〜とく.
Examples
パーティーの前に、飲み物を買っておきます。
I will buy drinks before the party (in advance).
明日テストがあるから、勉強しておきました。
Because there is a test tomorrow, I studied (in preparation).
暑いから、窓を開けておいてください。
It's hot, so please leave the window open.
Common mistakes
Mixing up the 'preparation' meaning with 'state' (〜ている). Remember that 〜ておく always implies that the action was done intentionally for a future goal.
Tip
In casual conversation, listen for 'V-toku' (e.g., Katte-oku becomes Kattoku). This is a very common contraction you will hear in anime and daily life.
More JLPT N4 grammar
See ておく in real Japanese
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