What it means
こと turns a verb phrase into a noun-like phrase, often expressing the action of doing something or the idea of doing something. It is commonly used when the action is the subject or object of a sentence, and it can be translated as “to do” or “doing.” The verb before こと is often shown in the dictionary form, as in this example, but nominalized verbs can also use other plain forms, including past, negative, and past-negative forms, when the meaning requires them. The form before こと is normally plain rather than polite.
Usage note
Do not confuse this nominalizing こと with fixed expressions such as ことができる, which means “can do,” or ことにする, which means “decide to do.” The exact meaning depends on the expression that follows こと.
How to use it
毎朝運動することは大切です。
Exercising every morning is important.
毎朝運動することは大切だ。
Exercising every morning is important.
Example sentences
毎朝水を飲むことは、健康のために大切です。
Drinking water every morning is important for your health.
毎晩、寝る前に本を読むことは、私の楽しみです。
Reading a book before bed every night is something I enjoy.
新しい漢字を覚えることは、少