Usage of とても
The adverb とても is a common and versatile intensifier used to express a high degree of a quality or state. It is often translated as "very," "extremely," or "greatly." It is used with adjectives and verbs to emphasize the extent or intensity.
Common Collocations
- とても + い-adjective + です: To express strong positive or negative qualities (e.g., とても楽しいです - very fun).
- とても + な-adjective + です: Used with な-adjectives to intensify meaning (e.g., とても静かです - very quiet).
- とても + verb (in polite form): To emphasize the action (e.g., とても助かりました - I was very helped).
Register and Politeness
とても is neutral and polite enough for everyday conversation and formal speech. It is widely used in both casual and formal contexts.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse とても with すごく or とっても, which are similar intensifiers. とても is slightly more formal and standard, while とっても is more casual and colloquial. Use とても in writing and formal speech, and とっても in casual conversations.
Summary
Use とても to clearly and politely emphasize the degree of an adjective or verb. It is a fundamental intensifier that appears frequently in daily Japanese and is essential for expressing strong feelings or states.