What it means
こと turns a verb or adjective clause into a noun-like phrase. It can refer to an action, state, or fact and allows the phrase to be used as a topic or subject. With verbs, the plain form comes before こと. With an い-adjective, the adjective stays unchanged; with a な-adjective, な is placed before こと.
Usage note
こと is more abstract and formal than の when both can nominalize a clause. Do not confuse this use with のこと, which usually means “about” or “concerning” a person or thing.
How to use it
元気なことは大切です。
Being healthy is important.
安いことはうれしいです。
Being inexpensive is pleasing.
毎朝走ることは健康にいいです。
Running every morning is good for your health.
元気なことは大切だ。
Being healthy is important.
安いことはうれしい。
Being inexpensive is pleasing.
毎朝走ることは健康にいい。
Running every morning is good for your health.
Example sentences
毎朝、窓を開けることは大切です。
Opening the window every morning is important.
新しい言葉を毎日覚えることは難しいです。
Memorizing new words every day is difficult.
料理を始める前に、手を洗うことを忘れないでください。
Before starting to cook, please do not forget to wash your hands.