ここ
Here, This place
Structure
Place near the speaker
Explanation
ここ is part of the これ group of demonstrative words, which point to things physically close to the person speaking. While これ refers to an object ('this thing'), ここ specifies a location, meaning 'this place' or more commonly, 'here'.
- ここの図書館はとても静かです。The library here is very quiet.
- すみません、こことここは違いますか？Excuse me, are this part and this part different?
Fun Fact
In Japanese, the entire set of demonstrative words is known as the こそあど言葉 (ko-so-a-do words). This system includes every variation of これ (near speaker), それ (near listener), あれ (far from both), and どれ (question word).
Caution
Be careful not to mix up ここ with こっち. Although both can be translated as 'here', こっち implies a general direction or way ('this way'), whereas ここ refers to a specific, fixed location ('this spot').
- こっちに座ってください。Please sit over here. (Focus on the direction)
- ここに座ってください。Please sit in this spot. (Focus on the place)
Examples
ここです。
Here.
ここが広い。
This spot is spacious.
ここも静かだ。
This spot is also quiet.
ここが安全です。
It's safe here.
ここが明るいですか。
Is it bright enough here?
ここは、私の学校だ。
This is my school.
ここは、出口です。
This is the exit.
ここは、教室。
This is the classroom.
ここは、コンビニです。
This is a convenience store.
ここは、受付です。
Here is the reception desk. (This is the reception desk)
ここのコーヒーは美味しいですか。
Is the coffee here good?
ここのラーメンは高いです。
The ramen here is expensive. (This place's ramen is expensive)