～こと (〜koto)
Explanation
Express an action in a nominal (noun-like) form or state fact or experience.
Formation
Verb-plain form + こと, Verb-phrase in plain form + こと
Detailed Explanation
The ～こと grammar point is used to turn a verb or verb phrase into a noun or noun phrase. This allows the verb to be talked about as a general concept, fact, or experience. The formation varies slightly depending on whether it is used with a verb or a verb phrase.
Examples
日本語を話すことができます。
Nihongo wo hanasu koto ga dekimasu.
I can speak Japanese.
毎日運動することは健康に良いです。
Mainichi undou suru koto wa kenkou ni ii desu.
Exercising every day is good for your health.
彼はピアノを弾くことが大好きです。
Kare wa piano wo hiku koto ga daisuki desu.
He loves to play the piano.
映画を見ることに時間を使いたくない。
Eiga wo miru koto ni jikan wo tsukai takunai.
I don't want to spend time watching movies.
Grammar content sourced from hanabira.org.