This grammar turns a verb or adjective into a noun. You use it for things you can see, hear, or feel.
Clause + のPrimary
Verb [dictionary form / た-form / ない-form] + の
い-Adjective + の
な-Adjective + な + の
This grammar turns a verb or adjective into a noun. You use it for things you can see, hear, or feel.
電車が遅れたのを知りませんでした。
I didn't know that the train was late.
彼が泣いているのを見てしまった。
I unfortunately saw him crying.
毎朝ジョギングするのは健康にいいよ。
Jogging every morning is good for your health, you know.
一番速く走れるのは誰だと思う？
Who do you think is the one who can run the fastest?
Using の feels more personal. It's like you are talking about something real that happened. It's often used when you share your own feelings or experiences.
This の is different from こと. You use の for things you see or hear. You use こと for ideas or facts. For example, 'I like watching movies' uses の. 'My hobby is watching movies' uses こと.
Don't use this when you talk about your ability. For example, say "泳ぐことができる" (can swim), not "泳ぐのができる". Don't use this when you talk about past experiences. For example, say "日本へ行ったことがある" (have been to Japan), not "日本へ行ったのがある".
Often confused with(1)
Contrasts with(1)
Less formal alternatives(2)
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