〜1は 名詞2に 動詞被動形

Meaning

This is a basic passive voice pattern used when focusing on the person or thing receiving an action. Noun 1 marks the subject receiving the action (with は), Noun 2 marks the agent performing the action (with に), and the verb takes passive form. This structure shifts focus from 'who did it' to 'what happened to someone.'

Formation

Examples

1. 安藤さんは部長にほめられました。
   Ando was praised by the department manager.

2. 私とラジさんは社長にパーティーに招待されました。
   Raj and I were invited to a party by the president.

3. さっき知らない人に道を聞かれました。
   A stranger just asked me for directions.

Summary

• Use は to mark the person/thing receiving the action as the topic
• Use に to mark the person/agent performing the action
• Verb must be in passive (られた/られます) form to show the action is received