～うちに JLPT N3 Neutral

〜uchi ni

Express 'while', 'before', or 'during' a certain condition or situation.

"While (a temporary condition holds)" - implies acting before the window closes. (Near-duplicate of n2-040 - same word, taught at both N2 and N3.)

Formation

Verb-てform + いる + うちに, い-Adjective + い + うちに, な-Adjective + な + うちに

Explanation

The ～うちに grammar point is used to express the idea of doing something while a certain condition or situation is still present or before it changes. It can be translated as 'while', 'before', or 'during' in English. The formation differs depending on whether it is used with a verb, い-adjective, or な-adjective.

Example sentences

若いうちに、いろいろな経験をしておくことが大切です。

It is important to have various experiences while you are young.

Wakai uchi ni, iroiro na keiken wo shite oku koto ga taisetsu desu.
雨が降っていないうちに、買い物に行こう。

Let's go shopping before it starts raining.

Ame ga futte inai uchi ni, kaimono ni ikou.
料理が熱いうちに食べましょう。

Let's eat while the food is still hot.

Ryouri ga atsui uchi ni tabemashou.
休みのうちに、旅行の計画を立てたいです。

I want to plan a trip during the holidays.

Yasumi no uchi ni, ryokou no keikaku wo tatetai desu.

Time Window (During / While It Lasts)

Noun の間に JLPT N4
Verb ている間に JLPT N4