「なら」Make a supposition about the truth

「なら」Make a supposition about the truth

if, in case, if it is the case that, if it is true that

The meaning of A​なら​B​ can be roughly translated to if the actual circumstances (A) were like that, B. It is a conditional particle that is used to express a hypothetical situation in A, and the result that occurs if the conditions are met in B. It can be translated to if in English. Attaching なら​ directly to a noun is possible, while elements that are not nouns can have の​ added between them, although it is optional.

For verbs and い-adjectives in present or past form, simply attach (​の​)​なら​ to it. In modern Japanese the の​ is optional and is frequently omitted. Adding the の​ does not change the meaning.

For な-adjectives and nouns you simply attach なら​ or for past tense だった​(​の​)​なら​.

Time for some example sentences.

This sentence expresses that if it is the case that you don't eat, I won't eat either. In other words, this is not the current situation, but if it comes to A, I will do B.

Special Note

When using なら​, there has to exist reasonable doubt that the hypothetical may not come to be.

This case would be nonsensical, as it always becomes night without fail. Furthermore, it cannot be used if the condition in the first part directly brings about the result that follows.

In the above, me going to the party is what led me to see that Tanaka was there. Remember, なら​ supposes that B happens if A is the case. But I actually did go to the party, which led to me seeing Tanaka, so supposing the truth makes no sense here.

Formation