Shibuya e ikitaindesukedo…
In Japanese, combining “ndesu” with conjunctions like “ga” and “kedo” can help you ask questions in a more natural and conversational manner. These combinations soften the questions and make them sound less direct and more polite, which is important in maintaining the subtleties of Japanese communication.
“ndesuga…” and “ndesukedo…”
When you use “ndesuga” or “ndesukedo”, it often adds a slight hesitation or introduces an explanation before asking a question. This makes the question sound less abrupt and more polite.”ndesuga” and “ndesukedo” are used in public and in more formal ways.
Shibuya e ikitaindesuga, nani sen de ikemasuka?
“Shibuya e ikitaindesu” is the explanation of the situation (preface), and “Nani sen de ikemasuka?” is the main question.
Ryokou e ikitaindesuga, jikan ga arimasen.
“Ryokou e ikitaindesu” is the preface, and “jikan ga arimasen” is the main thing that he or she wants to say.
“ndakedo”
“ndakedo” is used in a conversation with your family and friends. “nda” is the short form of “ndesu”.
Shibuya e ikitaindakedo, nani sen de ikeru?
“Shibuya e ikitainda” is the explanation of the situation (preface), and “nani sen de ikeru?” is the main question. This is the conversation with a friend so “nani sen de ikeru?” is in short form.
Atama ga itaindakedo, kusuri ga nai.
“Atama ga itainda” is the preface, and “kusuri ga nai” is the main statement.
Expressions
Koukousei nandesuga, otonaryoukin desuka? (I am a high school student, but is the price for adults?)
Hatachi janaindesuga, osake o nondemo iidesuka? (I don’t reach 20 years old, but is it OK to drink alcohol?)
Sakura wa kireinandesukedo, soto wa samuidesu. (Cherry blossoms are beautiful, but it is cold outside.)
Kanojo wa yasashiindesuga, isogashikute, amari aemasen. (She is kind, but busy and we cannot meet often.)
Gohyakuen shika naindesukedo, basu ni noremasuka? (I only have 500 yen, but can I ride on a bus?)