JLPT N3
として
As (in the role of)
Structure
Noun として
How it works
This grammar point is used to indicate a person's role, capacity, occupation, or the status of a thing. It translates to 'as' or 'in the capacity of' in English. It focuses on the specific position or qualification from which an action is performed or a statement is made.
Examples
趣味として日本語を勉強しています。
I am studying Japanese as a hobby.
彼は留学生として日本に来ました。
He came to Japan as an international student.
この箱を椅子として使ってもいいですか。
Can I use this box as a chair?
Common mistakes
Do not confuse 'として' with 'にとって'. While 'として' indicates a role or status, 'にとって' indicates a viewpoint or 'from the perspective of' someone (e.g., 'To me, this is important').
Tip
To remember this, think of it as a badge or a hat someone puts on. When you wear the 'teacher' hat (先生として), you are acting specifically in that role.
More JLPT N3 grammar
See として in real Japanese
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