April 16, 2014　=========
☆ inform　知らせる
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This is another word that my students often get wrong. For some reason many Japanese people like to use the word, “notice” instead of “inform”. I’m not sure why – I guess it is because of confusion between the usage of it as a verb or a noun. Here are some tips to help you remember to use “inform” instead of “notice”.
1. Notice is most often used as a noun to describe a sign in a public place which is giving information. For example, “the notice said that the elevator was out of order.” Or “Did you get the notice about school closure day next Friday?”
2. Use “notice” as a verb when you are talking about when you (or someone else) becomes aware of something or someone. For example, “I noticed the elevator is out of order, how do I get to level 5?” or “I noticed the school will be closed next Friday, is that for a teachers’ meeting?”
3. Use “inform” when you are giving information to other people. For example, “I’d like to inform you that the elevator is out of order.” Or “I’d like to inform you that the school will be closed next Friday.”
In other words, use “inform” if you are giving information to other people. Use “notice” as a noun – try to avoid using it as a verb if you can! If you do want to use it as a verb, use it to describe something you know, rather than information you want to give. Hope that helps!
Bye,
Chris