JLPT N3
に対して
Towards / In contrast to
Structure
Noun に対して
How it works
This grammar point has two main uses. First, it marks the target of an action, feeling, or attitude (towards/to), and second, it is used to show a clear contrast between two things (in contrast to). When used with a noun, it directly follows the noun, but can also be seen as 'に対する' when modifying a following noun.
Examples
目上の人に対しては、敬語を使わなければならない。
You must use honorific language toward your superiors.
昨日は寒かったのに対して、今日はとても暑い。
In contrast to yesterday being cold, today is very hot.
彼は誰に対しても、いつも親切だ。
He is always kind to everyone.
Common mistakes
Mixing up 'に対して' with 'について'. While 'について' means 'about' (a topic), 'に対して' signifies a direct attitude or response directed 'toward' someone or something.
Tip
When focusing on the contrast meaning, remember that you need 'の' (のに対して) if you are following a verb or an adjective to turn it into a noun phrase.
More JLPT N3 grammar
See に対して in real Japanese
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