Mastering Potential Japanese Verbs: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction to Potential Japanese Verbs

Potential Japanese verbs allow speakers to express the ability or potential to perform an action. These verbs play a crucial role in everyday communication and are integral to mastering the Japanese language. This section will explore the structure, conjugation rules, and examples of potential verbs, providing a solid foundation for understanding and using them effectively.

Structure of Potential Verbs

In the Japanese language, potential verbs follow specific conjugation patterns that differ between verb groups. The verbs are divided into three primary groups:

1. Group 1 (Godan verbs): These verbs typically end in “-u” and change the last syllable of the verb stem to indicate potentiality.
2. Group 2 (Ichidan verbs): These verbs end in “-ru” and involve a straightforward modification for potential form.
3. Irregular verbs: A small group of verbs with unique conjugation rules.

Conjugation Rules

Group 1 Verbs (Godan)

To form the potential of Group 1 verbs:

1. Replace the final “-u” with “-eru”.
2. Example: 書く (kaku, “to write”) becomes 書ける (kakeru, “can write”).

Group 2 Verbs (Ichidan)

For Group 2 verbs:

1. Drop the final “-ru” and add “-rareru”.
2. Example: 食べる (taberu, “to eat”) becomes 食べられる (taberareru, “can eat”).

Irregular Verbs

The two primary irregular verbs:

1. する (suru, “to do”) becomes できる (dekiru, “can do”).
2. 来る (kuru, “to come”) becomes 来られる (korareru, “can come”).

Examples of Usage

Potential verbs are frequently used in both spoken and written Japanese. Examples include:

• 読める (yomeru): “can read”
• 見られる (mirareru): “can see/watch”
• 聞ける (kikeru): “can hear”

Quotes are often used to illustrate practical usage:

彼は日本語が話せますか？ (Kare wa Nihongo ga hanasemasu ka?) “Can he speak Japanese?”

Key Points

Potential verbs are essential for:

• Expressing abilities and skills.
• Asking for and giving permission.
• Discussing potential actions or outcomes.

By comprehending the fundamental structure and rules of potential verbs, learners can enhance their fluency and expressiveness in Japanese. This knowledge is vital for engaging in meaningful conversations and understanding the nuances of the language.

Understanding the Basics of Verb Conjugation

Conjugation in Japanese involves altering the verb form to indicate various aspects such as tense, mood, and voice. Understanding these basic elements is critical for mastering potential verbs. Japanese verbs are typically categorized into three groups: Ichidan (also known as Group I or -eru and -iru ending verbs), Godan (Group II or -u ending verbs), and Irregular verbs.

Verb Groups and Conjugations

1. Ichidan Verbs

   • These verbs end in -iru or -eru.
   • To conjugate, remove the -ru ending and add the appropriate suffix.

2. Godan Verbs

   • These verbs end in -u, encompassing a broader range of endings like -aru, -uru, -oru, etc.
   • The final -u changes before adding the suffix depending on the conjugation required.

3. Irregular Verbs

   • Only a few verbs fall into this category, notable examples being する (suru - to do) and 来る (kuru - to come).
   • These verbs have unique conjugation rules that do not follow the typical patterns of Ichidan or Godan verbs.

Potential Form

The potential form is used to express the ability to do something. Each verb group has its specific way of forming the potential:

• Ichidan Verbs:

  • Replace the final -ru with -rareru.
  • e.g., 食べる (taberu - to eat) becomes 食べられる (taberareru - can eat).

• Godan Verbs:

  • Change the final -u to -eru.
  • e.g., 行く (iku - to go) becomes 行ける (ikeru - can go).

• Irregular Verbs:

  • する (suru) becomes できる (dekiru - can do).
  • 来る (kuru) becomes 来られる (korareru - can come).

Usage Notes

• The potential form implies ability or possibility and often pairs with particles like が (ga) instead of を (wo).
• Potential verbs generally need to be used in a proper context to maintain the sentence’s grammatical integrity.

Common Mistakes

• Confusing Ichidan and Godan verbs’ endings can lead to incorrect conjugations.
• Overusing the potential form in contexts where it’s unnecessary or awkward often results in unnatural sentences.

By understanding these fundamentals, one is well-positioned to proceed to more advanced applications and nuances of potential verbs in Japanese.

Difference Between Potential Form and Other Verb Forms

Understanding Japanese verb forms is essential for mastering the language. Each form serves a unique grammatical purpose, including expressing ability, likelihood, intent, and various tenses. Differentiating between potential forms and other verb forms aids in achieving precise communication.

• Potential Form: This form indicates the ability to do something. For example:
  • 食べる (taberu) - to eat
  • 食べられる (taberareru) - can eat
  • 話す (hanasu) - to speak
  • 話せる (hanaseru) - can speak

The verb endings typically change to convey the potential form, differing based on the verb classification (either godan or ichidan verbs).

• Plain Form (Dictionary Form): This form is used for general statements or dictionary entries.

  • 食べる (taberu) - to eat
  • 話す (hanasu) - to speak

• Negative Form: Indicates the negation of an action.

  • 食べない (tabenai) - do not eat
  • 話さない (hanasanai) - do not speak

• Polite Form: Expresses politeness and is commonly used in formal conversations.

  • 食べます (tabemasu) - eat
  • 話します (hanashimasu) - speak

• Past Form: Represents actions completed in the past.

  • 食べた (tabeta) - ate
  • 話した (hanashita) - spoke

• Imperative Form: Used to give commands.

  • 食べろ (tabero) - eat!
  • 話せ (hanase) - speak!

• Te-Form / Request Form: Used for making requests or linking phrases.

  • 食べて (tabete) - please eat
  • 話して (hanashite) - please speak

• Conditional Form: Expresses conditional actions and results.

  • 食べれば (tabereba) - if you eat
  • 話せば (hanaseba) - if you speak

The potential form specifically functions to describe capability, setting it apart from other verb forms which denote tense, politeness, negation, and other grammatical aspects. Mastery of these forms is crucial for proficiency in both spoken and written Japanese.

The potential form transforms verbs to express abilities, while other forms adapt verbs for different purposes, such as politeness, tense, or negation.

Understanding these distinctions helps learners effectively convey actions, intentions, and conditions.

How to Form Potential Verbs in Japanese

Forming potential verbs in Japanese requires knowledge of verb classes and their respective conjugation rules. Japanese verbs can be categorized into three main groups: Group 1 (Godan verbs), Group 2 (Ichidan verbs), and Group 3 (Irregular verbs). Each group has specific rules for transforming verbs into their potential forms. Below is a guide for each group.

Group 1 (Godan) Verbs

Group 1 verbs typically end with -u sounds. To convert a Godan verb into its potential form:

1. Switch the -u sound to the equivalent -e sound.
2. Attach -る (ru) to the verb stem.

Examples:

• 書く (kaku) – to write → 書ける (kakeru) – can write
• 飲む (nomu) – to drink → 飲める (nomeru) – can drink
• 話す (hanasu) – to speak → 話せる (hanaseru) – can speak

Group 2 (Ichidan) Verbs

Group 2 verbs end in -eru or -iru syllable. To convert an Ichidan verb into its potential form:

1. Remove -る (ru).
2. Attach -られる (rareru) to the remaining verb stem.

Examples:

• 食べる (taberu) – to eat → 食べられる (taberareru) – can eat
• 見る (miru) – to see → 見られる (mirareru) – can see
• 起きる (okiru) – to wake up → 起きられる (okirareru) – can wake up

Group 3 (Irregular) Verbs

There are only two significant irregular verbs in Japanese: する (suru) – to do, and くる (kuru) – to come. Their potential forms are unique and must be memorized.

• する (suru) – to do → できる (dekiru) – can do
• くる (kuru) – to come → こられる (korareru) – can come

Negative Potential Form

To form the negative potential form, conjugate the potential form as though it were an Ichidan verb, meaning the -ない (nai) form applies to all groups.

Examples:

• 書く (kaku) – to write → 書けない (kakenai) – cannot write
• 食べる (taberu) – to eat → 食べられない (taberarenai) – cannot eat
• する (suru) – to do → できない (dekinai) – cannot do

Understanding these rules facilitates the ability to communicate capabilities and limitations in Japanese effectively. These forms are essential for expressing one’s ability to perform actions, furthering proficiency in Japanese. All conjugations should be practiced regularly to achieve mastery.

The Role of Context in Using Potential Verbs

In Japanese, context significantly influences the use of potential verbs. Potential verbs express the ability or possibility to do something, but their use varies depending on the situation. Understanding nuances is essential for accurate communication.

Key contextual factors include:

1. Formality Level

   The formality of the conversation dictates which potential verb forms are appropriate.

   • Plain form (e.g., 食べられる/taberareru): Used in casual conversations with friends or family.
   • Polite form (e.g., 食べられます/taberaremasu): Required in formal settings, such as speaking with superiors or in customer service.

2. Subject of the Sentence

   The subject impacts verb choice. For example:

   • Human subjects often use ～られる (e.g., 行ける/ikeru).
   • Non-human subjects might use different structures (e.g., 犬は泳げる/inu wa oyogeru).

3. Verb Type

   Different conjugation rules apply depending on whether the verb is ichidan (one-group), godan (five-group), or irregular.

   • Ichidan verbs take on ～られる (e.g., 見る/miru becomes 見られる/mirareru).
   • Godan verbs modify their stem (e.g., 読む/yomu becomes 読める/yomeru).
   • Irregular verbs include exceptions like する (suru) becoming できる (dekiru).

4. Cultural Considerations

   Cultural context dictates politeness and appropriateness:

   • Expressing ability vs. permission: “Can I do this?” vs. “Am I allowed to do this?”
   • Being indirect to show humility, as in 可能です (kanō desu), meaning “It’s possible.”

5. Negative Forms

   Determining context aids in forming negative potential verbs:

   • 行けない/ikenai (cannot go).
   • 食べられない/taberarenai (cannot eat).

6. Temporal Context

   Time-related aspects influence potential verbs:

   • Present potential (e.g., 今食べられる/ima taberareru – can eat now).
   • Past potential (e.g., 昨日は泳げた/kinō wa oyogeta – could swim yesterday).

In conclusion, comprehending the role of context is vital for proficiency in using potential verbs in Japanese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Potential Verbs

When learning potential Japanese verbs, several common mistakes could hinder progress. Being aware of these pitfalls ensures a smoother learning experience.

Incorrect Verb Conjugation

Proper conjugation is essential for accurate communication. Here are some common errors to watch out for:

• Using the wrong verb stem: Ensure the correct verb stem is chosen, such as 言う (iu) which changes to 言える (ieru) in the potential form.
• Incorrect suffix application: For example, using られる (rareru) incorrectly for Group 1 verbs instead of れる (reru), which often results in confusion.

Misunderstanding Verb Groups

Japanese verbs are classified into three groups, and each group conjugates differently:

1. Group 1 or Godan verbs: These use the -eru ending in the potential form.
   • Ex: 買う (kau) becomes 買える (kaeru)
2. Group 2 or Ichidan verbs: These use -rareru for forming potential verbs.
   • Ex: 見る (miru) becomes 見られる (mirareru)
3. Irregular verbs:
   • する (suru) becomes できる (dekiru)
   • 来る (kuru) becomes 来られる (korareru)

Overuse of Politeness

Using too much politeness can make sentences sound unnatural. Potential verbs typically follow regular politeness rules without adding extra layers:

• Polite form: Simple ます forms apply to potentials as well.
  • Ex: 言える (ieru) becomes 言えます (iemasu)

Confusion with Related Verbs

Potential verbs often get mixed up with other verb forms. Clarify usage to avoid misunderstandings:

• Potential vs. passive: Differentiating is crucial. For instance, される can mean “to be done” passively or “can do” potentially depending on context.

Neglecting to Practice Contextual Usage

Learning verbs in isolation may lead to misunderstanding the context within which potential verbs are used:

• Practical sentences: Practice building sentences that incorporate potential verbs naturally.
  • Ex: 日本語を話せます (Nihongo o hanasemasu) - “I can speak Japanese.”

Pronunciation and Intonation Errors

Pay close attention to correct pronunciation and intonation to avoid miscommunication. Proper practice and listening to native speakers help rectify errors.

• Ex: Pronounce れ (re) distinctively to reduce spoken misunderstandings.

Avoid these common errors to gain confidence and proficiency with potential Japanese verbs.

Practical Examples of Potential Verbs in Daily Conversations

Potential verbs in Japanese denote the ability or possibility to perform an action. Here are practical examples that illustrate how potential verbs are used in everyday conversations:

Informal Conversations

1. Eating by oneself:

   • Original: 食べる (taberu) - to eat
   • Potential: 食べられる (taberareru) - can eat
   • Example: 「一人で食べられる？」(Hitori de taberareru?) - Can you eat by yourself?

2. Reading a book:

   • Original: 読む (yomu) - to read
   • Potential: 読める (yomeru) - can read
   • Example: 「この本を読める？」(Kono hon wo yomeru?) - Can you read this book?

3. Running fast:

   • Original: 走る (hashiru) - to run
   • Potential: 走れる (hashireru) - can run
   • Example: 「速く走れる？」(Hayaku hashireru?) - Can you run fast?

Formal Conversations

1. Attending a meeting:

   • Original: 参加する (sankasuru) - to participate
   • Potential: 参加できる (sankadekiru) - can participate
   • Example: 「会議に参加できますか？」(Kaigi ni sankadekimasu ka?) - Can you attend the meeting?

2. Writing a report:

   • Original: 書く (kaku) - to write
   • Potential: 書ける (kakeru) - can write
   • Example: 「レポートを書けますか？」(Repōto wo kakemasu ka?) - Can you write the report?

3. Delivering a speech:

   • Original: 演説する (enzetsusuru) - to deliver a speech
   • Potential: 演説できる (enzetsudekiru) - can deliver a speech
   • Example: 「演説できますか？」(Enzetsu dekimasu ka?) - Can you deliver the speech?

Casual Conversations with Friends

1. Going out:

   • Original: 出かける (dekakeru) - to go out
   • Potential: 出かけられる (dekakerareru) - can go out
   • Example: 「今、出かけられる？」(Ima, dekakerareru?) - Can you go out now?

2. Swimming:

   • Original: 泳ぐ (oyogu) - to swim
   • Potential: 泳げる (oyogeru) - can swim
   • Example: 「このプールで泳げる？」(Kono pūru de oyogeru?) - Can you swim in this pool?

3. Playing a game:

   • Original: 遊ぶ (asobu) - to play
   • Potential: 遊べる (asoberu) - can play
   • Example: 「ゲームを遊べる？」(Gēmu wo asoberu?) - Can you play the game?

By incorporating these examples into conversations, mastering potential verbs becomes slightly more practical and effective for learners.

Advanced Techniques for Mastering Potential Verbs

Understanding potential verbs in Japanese requires more than just familiarity with basic conjugations. Advanced learners benefit from mastering nuances, varied forms, and real-world applications.

Nuances and Usage Contexts:

• Differentiate between “potential form” and “can” expressions using other verb endings.
• Recognize subtleties in politeness levels between plain form (できる) and polite forms (できます).

Complex Conjugations:

1. Ichidan Verbs:

   • Typically, add ～られる to the verb stem.
   • Example: 食べる (taberu; to eat) → 食べられる (taberareru; can eat)

2. Godan Verbs:

   • Change the final ～う sound to ～える.
   • Example: 書く (kaku; to write) → 書ける (kakeru; can write)

3. Irregular Verbs:

   • For する (suru; to do): できる (dekiru; can do)
   • For 来る (kuru; to come): 来られる (korareru; can come)

Dialects and Variations:

• Explore forms like Kansai-ben, where potential forms may slightly vary.
• Be aware of regional differences in usage to ensure accurate communication.

Passive Potential Verbs:

• Combine passive and potential forms for nuanced expression.
• Example: 見られる (mirareru; can be seen) - passive potential form of 見る (miru; to see).

Avoiding Common Pitfalls:

• Misunderstandings often arise with similar sounding verbs.
• Ensure clarity by practicing contextual usage.

Application Practice:

1. Interactive Methods:

   • Engage in language exchanges focusing on using potential verbs.
   • Utilize apps for conversation practice to test comprehension and usage.

2. Writing Exercises:

   • Write essays or journal entries emphasizing varied uses of potential forms.
   • Peer reviews can provide feedback on accurate and nuanced usage.

Real-world Scenarios:

• Role-play situations like office settings, restaurants, and travel.
• Application ensures adaptability in professional and casual contexts.

Cultural Contexts:

• Learn idiomatic expressions incorporating potential forms.
• Examples: “できることなら” (If possible) and its use in formal requests.

By mastering these advanced techniques, learners deepen their understanding and enhance their proficiency in utilising potential verbs effectively in diverse contexts.

Resources and Tools for Practicing Potential Verbs

To master potential Japanese verbs, various resources and tools can aid the learning process:

Online Dictionaries

• Jisho.org: Provides detailed conjugations for potential verbs.
• Tangorin: Offers example sentences and pronunciation guides.

Language Learning Apps

1. Anki: Useful for creating custom flashcards to practice potential verbs.
2. WaniKani: Focuses on kanji and vocabulary, includes potential verb forms.

Textbooks

• “Genki I & II”: Comprehensive chapters on verb forms including potential verbs.
• “A Dictionary of Japanese Grammar”: Detailed explanations and examples of potential verbs.

Websites

• Tofugu: Articles and lessons specifically on potential verbs.
• JapanesePod101: Audio and video lessons with native speakers.

YouTube Channels

• Japanese Ammo with Misa: Lessons that cover potential verbs in depth.
• Learn Japanese from Zero!: Step-by-step video guides on verb conjugations.

Practice Exercises

1. JLPT Official Practice Workbook: Contains exercises for various levels involving potential verbs.
2. Tae Kim’s Guide to Learning Japanese: Interactive exercises online.

Language Exchange Platforms

• HelloTalk: Connects learners with native speakers for practice.
• iTalki: Offers one-on-one lessons with professional Japanese tutors.

Flashcard Sets

• Quizlet: Pre-made flashcard sets on potential verbs.
• Memrise: Courses that focus on conjugation and usage of potential verbs.

Community Forums

• Reddit’s r/LearnJapanese: Discussion threads on potential verbs and related questions.
• Japanese Language Stack Exchange: Community-driven Q&A from learners and experts.

Audio Resources

1. Pimsleur Japanese: Engaging audio lessons that incorporate potential verbs.
2. NHK World Japan Easy Japanese: Real-world context for potential verbs.

Supplementary Materials

• “Japanese Sentence Patterns for Effective Communication”: Includes sections on how to use potential verbs effectively.
• “Japanese the Manga Way”: Uses manga to illustrate the use of potential verbs in conversations.

Mnemonic Devices

• Kanji Damage: Focuses on memorable ways to remember potential verb forms.

Through a comprehensive approach utilizing these tools, learners can effectively practice and master potential Japanese verbs.

Cultural Nuances and Considerations

Understanding potential verbs in the Japanese language requires more than just mastering grammar rules. It is crucial to grasp the cultural nuances that influence their usage. Japanese culture values politeness, hierarchy, and context, all of which impact how potential verbs are applied in conversation.

1. Politeness and Formality:

   • In Japanese society, politeness is paramount. The choice of potential verbs can vary depending on the level of formality and the relationship between speakers.
   • Casual forms might be used among friends or peers, whereas more formal potential verbs are required in professional settings or with superiors.

2. Contextual Sensitivity:

   • Context plays a significant role in determining the appropriateness of potential verbs. Understanding the situation and the people involved is essential.
   • Phrases like “できる” (dekiru) for “can do” might be perceived differently based on the formality of the setting and the people present.

3. Use of Honorifics:

   • Japanese language employs honorifics to show respect. When expressing potential actions involving others, it is customary to use honorifics.
   • For instance, speaking about a superior’s ability might require more respectful forms such as “おできになる” (odekinaru).

4. Indirectness and Humility:

   • Japanese culture often favors indirectness and humility. It is common to downplay one’s abilities while elevating others’.
   • Instead of affirming one’s capability too directly, using softer expressions or suggesting potential limitations (e.g., “かもしれません” (kamo shiremasen) for “might be able”) is polite.

5. Gender Differences:

   • Speech patterns and verb forms can differ by gender. Women may use more polite and softer forms, adhering to traditional speech patterns.
   • Men might employ more assertive verb forms, though this is changing with modern egalitarian trends.

6. Regional Variations:

   • Regional dialects also affect how potential verbs are used. For example, Kansai dialect (Kansai-ben) has unique verb forms and cultural implications that differ from the Tokyo standard dialect.

By paying attention to these cultural factors, learners can develop a deeper understanding of how to use potential verbs appropriately in various social contexts.

Review and Recap of Key Points

In mastering potential Japanese verbs, several critical aspects must be considered. Here is a review and recap of the key points:

1. Understanding Potential Verbs:

   • Potential verbs express the ability or possibility to perform an action.
   • Unlike English, Japanese potential verbs are conjugated forms of regular verbs.

2. Conjugation Rules:

   • Group 1 Verbs (Godan Verbs):
     • Change the -u ending to -eru.
     • Example: 書く (kaku) becomes 書ける (kakeru), meaning “can write.”
   • Group 2 Verbs (Ichidan Verbs):
     • Replace the -ru ending with -rareru.
     • Example: 食べる (taberu) becomes 食べられる (taberareru), meaning “can eat.”
   • Irregular Verbs:
     • する (suru – to do) becomes できる (dekiru), meaning “can do.”
     • 来る (kuru – to come) becomes 来られる (korareru), meaning “can come.”

3. Usage Context:

   • Potential verbs are used to indicate an action that someone is capable of doing.
   • Commonly found in daily conversations, formal writings, and various expression contexts.

4. Particle Implementation:

   • The particle が (ga) is often used with potential verbs instead of を (o).
   • Example: 日本語が話せます (Nihongo ga hanasemasu), meaning “I can speak Japanese.”

5. Negative Forms:

   • To form the negative, conjugate the potential verb to its negative form.
   • Example: 書けない (kakenai), meaning “cannot write.”

6. Differences from English Modality:

   • Japanese does not use separate auxiliary verbs for potentiality, unlike English.
   • The potential form is inherently integrated into the verb conjugation itself.

7. Learning Strategies:

   • Practice Daily:
     • Engage with native speakers or immerse in Japanese media.
   • Utilize Study Aids:
     • Leverage flashcards, language apps, and workbooks focused on potential verbs.
   • Seek Feedback:
     • Regularly interact in language learning communities for corrections and advice.

Overall, mastering potential Japanese verbs requires understanding their conjugation rules, usage contexts, and practical implementation in conversations. Continuous practice and immersion are vital for proficiency. The use of appropriate resources and feedback can significantly enhance the learning process.

FAQs about Potential Japanese Verbs

1. What is a potential verb in Japanese?

A potential verb in Japanese expresses the ability to perform an action. Unlike English, Japanese does not use auxiliary verbs like “can”; rather, it alters the verb form itself. For instance, the verb “to eat” (食べる, taberu) changes to “can eat” (食べられる, taberareru).

2. How are potential verbs formed?

Potential verbs are formed by modifying the verb stems:

• Group 1 (Godan verbs): Change the final ‘-u’ sound to ‘-e’ and add ‘る’.
• Group 2 (Ichidan verbs): Replace the final ‘る’ with ‘られる’.
• Irregular verbs:
  • “する” (to do) changes to “できる” (can do).
  • “来る” (to come) changes to “来られる” (korareru) but is more commonly “来れる” (koreru) in casual speech.

3. Are there exceptions to potential verb formation?

Yes, irregular verbs like “する” and “来る” have non-standard potential forms. Furthermore, some commonly used verbs might have colloquial variations, such as “見られる” (mirareru) for “can see”.

4. How is the potential form used in sentences?

The potential form is used in affirmative, negative, and question sentences to express capability:

• Affirmative: 読めます (Yomemasu) – “I can read.”
• Negative: 読めません (Yomemasen) – “I cannot read.”
• Question: 読めますか？ (Yomemasu ka?) – “Can you read?”

5. Are potential verbs used differently in formal and informal speech?

Yes, potential verbs have casual and polite forms that reflect the speech level:

• Polite: 食べられます (Taberaremasu) – “can eat” (formal)
• Casual: 食べられる (Taberareru) – “can eat” (informal)

6. How do potential verbs interact with particles?

In potential form sentences, the object of the potential verb often uses the particle “が” instead of “を”. For example:

• Standard: 私は寿司を食べる (Watashi wa sushi o taberu) – “I eat sushi.”
• Potential: 私は寿司が食べられる (Watashi wa sushi ga taberareru) – “I can eat sushi.”

7. Common mistakes to avoid?

One common mistake is using the incorrect particle with potential verbs. Another mistake is confusing the potential form with other verb forms that include “られる”.

Key Points:

• Group 1 potential verbs: Replace final ‘-u’ with ‘-e’, add ‘る’
• Group 2 potential verbs: Replace ‘る’ with ‘られる’
• Irregular verbs: “する” to “できる”, “来る” to “来られる” or “来れる”
• Use “が” instead of “を” for objects in potential form sentences
• Observe formal and informal distinctions in speech.

Proper usage of potential verbs enhances communication in Japanese by accurately conveying ability or capability, which is crucial for effective interaction.