JLPT N5: Japanese "Meet Friend": Tomodachi ni aimasu vs Tomodachi to aimasu - MLC Japanese


JLPT N5 "Meet": ... ni aimasu vs ... to Aimasu

The particle に (ni) does not mean “purpose” here.
Instead, it shows direction, target, or a point of contact.
You can imagine に as an arrow (→) pointing toward someone.

The particle と (to) expresses togetherness or partnership.
You can imagine と as a plus sign (+).

JLPT N5 grammar: 'Tomodachi ni aimasu' (meet a friend) vs 'Tomodachi to aimasu' (meet with a friend) example sentences in Japanese and Romaji

Ni Aimasu: Meet Someone (→)

  • ともだちに　あいます。Tomodachi ni aimasu.
    (tomodachi = friend, aimasu = see, meet)

To Aimasu: Meet With Someone (＋)

  • ともだちと　あいます。Tomodachi to aimasu.
  • あした　はらじゅくで　ともだちに　あいます。Ashita Harajuku de tomodachi ni aimasu. = Lit. Tomorrow, (I) see (my) friend in Harajuku. (Harajuku = a place in Tokyo.)
  • きのう　はらじゅくで　ともだちに　あいました。Kinou Harajuku de tomodachi ni aimasu. = Lit. Yesterday, (I) saw (my) friend in Harajuku.

 

Updated Jan 2026 - Clarity enhanced for easier learning:
• Clear Ni/To particle visuals
• Simplified grammar examples