られる
to be able to do (something)
The suffix "られる" is used to express the ability to do something, or the passive form of a verb. It conveys potentiality or the capability to perform an action.
Meaning
The suffix "られる" is used to express the ability to do something, or the passive form of a verb. It conveys potentiality or the capability to perform an action.
Formation
Explanation
The grammar point "られる" can be seen in two main contexts. Firstly, it is used to indicate the potential form of a verb, meaning that someone can do something or something can happen. For example, the verb 食べる (to eat) becomes 食べられる (can eat).
Secondly, it can express the passive form of a verb, showing that the subject undergoes an action. For instance, 書く (to write) changes to 書かれる (to be written). The context usually clarifies the meaning. Important notes:
- The form is mostly used with verbs, and not commonly used with nouns or adjectives.
- In spoken Japanese, the potential form is frequently replaced with other expressions, but られる remains correct.