等
We, Them, They, These, Those
Structure
Explanation
Japanese has a variety of prefixes and suffixes that add specific nuances to words. The particle ら is a suffix that indicates a group or plurality. For this reason, it is commonly known as a 'pluralizing suffix'. The character for ら is the same as that for 等, giving it a core meaning of '(A), and so on'.
The sense of 'more than one' comes directly from this 'and so on' meaning. To apply this grammar, simply add ら to the end of a pronoun.
- 僕らは映画を見に行きました。We went to see a movie.
- 君らは何を食べたい？What do you guys want to eat?
Caution
Since the original meaning of ら is like '(A) etc.', using it with people can sound dismissive or impolite, as if lumping them together. For this reason, it's generally best to avoid using this suffix with people unless you specifically need to convey this nuance. The suffix 達 is almost always a more suitable and respectful option.
Examples
彼女らは一緒に映画を見に行った。
They (the girls) went to see a movie together.
これらの中から好きなものを選んでください。
Please choose what you like from among these.
あれらの山はとても美しいですね。
Those mountains over there are very beautiful, aren't they?
僕らのチームが勝ったんだ！
Our team won!
君らは明日のパーティーに来るかい？
Are you all coming to the party tomorrow?
奴らはいつも問題ばかり起こす。
Those guys always cause nothing but trouble.
俺らはもう疲れたから帰るわ。
We're already tired, so we're heading home.
こいつらといると本当に楽しい。
It's really fun being with these guys.
彼らはとても親切な人たちです。
They are very kind people.
それらの書類をテーブルの上に置いてください。
Please put those documents on the table.
私らは高校からの友達なんです。
We've been friends since high school.
お前ら、もっと静かにしろ！
You guys, be more quiet!