は (wa) - Topic Particle
[Topic]は[Comment]
Explanation
Marks the topic of the sentence - what you're talking about. The rest of the sentence is a comment about this topic.
Formation
Noun + は
Examples
Usage Notes
- Written as は but pronounced "wa" when used as a particle
- Creates a "As for X" meaning
- Can mark contrast: 私は行きますが、彼は行きません。(I will go, but he won't)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't use は for introducing new information - use が instead
- Can't use は after question words (use が)
- Don't overuse - Japanese often omits the topic when clear from context
Related Grammar from "Essential Particles"
が (ga) - Subject Particle
[Subject]が[Predicate]
Marks the grammatical subject, introduces new information, or answers "who/what" questions.
を (wo/o) - Direct Object Particle
[Object]を[Transitive Verb]
Marks the direct object of a transitive verb - the thing receiving the action.
に (ni) - Target/Time/Location Particle
Various uses
Multi-purpose particle indicating location, time, direction, purpose, or indirect object.