方・かた (kata)

Meaning & usage

Adding 方 after a verb creates a noun meaning the way or method of doing that action, used when asking about or explaining how to do something. Attach it to the masu-stem, the part left after removing ます, as in 行きます to 行き方 or 食べます to 食べ方. Read it as かた in this use, not ほう, and treat the whole phrase as a noun that can be followed by particles like の or を.

Example sentences 8

1. ここからレストランまでのいきかたを書かいてください。

   Could you write me directions to the restaurant?

2. 薬の飲み方を教えてください。

   Please explain how to take the medicine.

3. ドリアンの食べ方って知ってる？

   Do you know how to eat durian?

4. 回りくどい言い方はやめてはっきり言ってよ！

   Stop beating around the bush and give it to me straight!

5. やり方なら私は知っている。

   I know how to do it.

6. 入国カードの書き方を教えてください。

   Please tell me how to fill out the disembarkation card.

7. 遠回しな言い方するなよ。

   Don't beat around the bush.

8. ボストンへの行き方を教えてあげるよ。

   I'll tell you how to get to Boston.