What it means
など means “etc.”, “and so on,” or “such as.” It usually follows one or more representative nouns and shows that the list is not complete. It can also follow a plain-form verb to describe an example action, often in a pattern such as “doing something like ...”. The expression is neutral and can be used in both familiar and polite sentences; politeness is shown elsewhere in the sentence, while など itself does not change.
Usage note
など commonly follows nouns, and a plain-form verb can come before it in expressions such as 見るなどして. Do not replace the verb with its ます-form directly before など in this construction. Depending on context, など can also make the speaker sound modest or dismissive, so the intended tone should be considered.
How to use it
私は本や雑誌などを読みます。
I read books, magazines, and so on.
週末は映画を見るなどして、家で過ごします。
On weekends, I spend time at home doing things such as watching a movie.
私は本や雑誌などを読む。
I read books, magazines, and so on.
週末は映画を見るなどして、家で過ごす。
On weekends, I spend time at home doing things such as watching a movie.
Example sentences
週末は図書館で小説や雑誌などを借ります。
On weekends, I borrow novels, magazines, and so on from the library.
旅行には、パスポートや歯ブラシなどを忘れずに持って行きましょう。
For the trip, let us be sure to take our passports, toothbrushes, and so on.
防災袋には、水や懐中電灯などを入れておきます。
I keep water, flashlights, and so on in my emergency bag.