ねずみの冒険The Mouse's Adventure

Read a sample in Japanese

What you'll learn

A mouse is caught in a trap. The lazy owner tries various methods to kill it, including using a car, but the mouse escapes. Later, the mouse bravely crosses an electric wire, witnessed by two boys who cheer it on.

Key vocabulary

Grammar points you'll meet

• ～てしまう N4Expresses completion of an action, often with a nuance of regret or finality.
  ねずみは、どこへか逃げてしまったのでした。
• ～なければならない N4Meaning 'must' or 'have to'.
  バケツに水を入れなければならない。
• ～てくれる N4Indicates someone does something for the speaker or someone else.
  どうしてくれようか。
• ～させる (causative) N4Causative form meaning 'make/let someone do something'.
  ねこに捕らえさせることを考えました。
• ～ようとする N3Attempt to do something; about to do something.
  自動車にねずみをひき殺させようとしたのでした。

Cultural notes

• Mice in Japanese FolkloreMice (nezumi) appear in Japanese folktales and proverbs, often symbolizing cleverness or survival. In this story, the mouse's resourcefulness reflects a common theme of the underdog overcoming obstacles.
• Monogusa (Laziness) in Japanese CultureThe owner's laziness (ものぐさ) drives the plot. Laziness is a recognizable character flaw in Japanese stories, often leading to unintended consequences.

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Topics & grammar

Short Storyfolklorefatesurvivalsuspensefulmelancholy〜なければならないnakereba naranai · must / have to〜させるsaseru · make/let someone do (causative)〜てくれるte kureru · do for me (favour)〜てしまうte shimau · ended up (regret)〜ようとするyou to suru · try to / be about to