JLPT Formal and Written Expressions: Common Grammar Differences

At JLPT N2 and above, you need to understand not only everyday conversation, but also formal written expressions used in news, explanations, essays, and business-like writing. These expressions often look similar, but they differ in tone and function.

について is a basic topic marker and can be used in both conversation and writing. に関して is more formal and is common in written explanations and business contexts. に対して indicates a target, an opponent, or a contrast.

に基づいて means that something is based on data, facts, rules, or evidence. を踏まえて means that you take a situation, opinion, or previous information into account before making a decision or action.

際して and にあたって are used when starting something or referring to a special occasion. において is a formal way to indicate a place, field, time, or situation.

When reading formal written expressions, do not rely only on dictionary meanings. Check whether the expression marks a topic, a target, a basis, a situation, or a contrast.

Practice formal written expressions

Main expressions in this guide

• について
• に関して
• に対して
• に基づいて
• を踏まえて
• 際して
• にあたって
• において

Related articles

• What Is the Difference Between について and に関して? Understanding Topic Scope and Formality
• 「にとって」 vs. 「に対して」: Master the Difference Between Viewpoint and Target
• を踏まえて vs に基づいて: Key Differences
• What Is the Difference Between 「にあたって」 and 「際して」? Understanding Formal Openings in Japanese
• 「こ, なく」, 「ないで」: Key Differences
• What Is the Difference Between 「において」 and 「で」?

Related hub pages

For reading transitions, see Connection Expressions That Improve JLPT Reading.

For cause and reason expressions, see Confusing JLPT Cause and Reason Expressions.