たら
Meanings
- When
- From when
- Just when
- If
About this pattern
Explanation
たら is a conditional that links a condition to a result. It is commonly used for real or probable conditions in the near future, or imagined situations. The clause before ら states the condition, and the clause after ら expresses what happens when that condition is met. Because it often refers to likely or practical outcomes, it can feel lighter or more casual than other conditionals. Typical uses include: giving a condition for future actions (If/When I finish, I’ll call you), describing a natural consequence (If it rains, we’ll stay inside), or offering a suggestion with a sense of flexibility (If you have time, please visit). Note that たら can imply planning or uncertainty, depending on context, and it can be used in both real and hypothetical situations. When making polite requests or giving advice, たら is common in instruction-like sentences, while in strong commands or strong wishes other forms may be preferred.