ただ

• Reading: ただ
• Romaji: tada
• Kanji breakdown: 只 (shi/tada) — only, merely, free
• Pronunciation: /ta.da/

Meaning

Free of charge; mere; only; just. A versatile word with several related meanings.

Used as an adjective to mean 'free of charge' (ただのコーヒー), as an adverb meaning 'just' or 'merely' (ただ見ていた), and as a conjunction meaning 'however' (ただ、問題がある). One of the most versatile words at this level. The kanji 只 exists but hiragana is standard in modern writing.

Examples

1. このアプリはただで使えるから便利だ。 This app is free to use, so it's really convenient.
2. ただ待っているだけでは何も変わらない。 Nothing will change if you just sit around waiting.
3. 景色は美しい。ただ、交通が不便だ。 The scenery is beautiful. However, the transportation is inconvenient.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, shopping, conversation

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From Old Japanese. Originally meant 'ordinary' or 'common,' which evolved into meanings of 'mere' and 'free' (as in something common or without special value). The kanji 只 depicts a mouth under a cover.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal