Japanese grammar
What does ～にいたって mean? Japanese grammar N1
～にいたって means only when it reached the critical stage of… did….
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | N + に至って 動詞 辞書形 + に至って |
| Romaji | niitatte |
| Meaning | only when it reached the critical stage of… did… |
Forming it
| Noun | この段階 + に至って |
|---|---|
| Verb | 事故が起きる + に至って |
How to use it
States that only upon reaching an extreme stage/situation does something happen/get realized; usually belatedly. Formal, written.
- 「～に至って」 = “only upon reaching the (extreme) stage/situation A does B (happen)”. Emphasizes that only once things reach a serious level does one act/realize (usually belatedly).
- Often paired with 「ようやく／はじめて」: only at that point does...
- The form 「に至っても」 = even having reached that point, still...
Examples
事故が起きるに至って、ようやく対策が取られた。
It was only when an accident occurred that measures were finally taken.
決勝に至って、彼の実力が発揮された。
It was in the final that his true ability came out.
Keep in mind
- Attaches to a noun indicating a stage, or to the dictionary form of a verb.
- Carries a nuance of being belated and serious.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong小さい問題に至って、大騒ぎした。
Even over a minor issue, he made a huge fuss.
Correct深刻な事態に至って、対応した。
「に至って」 is used when reaching a SERIOUS/extreme level, not for a minor matter.
-
Wrong事故に至ってに、気づいた。
Only once the accident happened did he realize it.
Correct事故に至って、気づいた。
「に至って」 attaches directly, without adding 「に」.
Exam tips
- 「に至って」 = only upon reaching an extreme stage (usually belatedly); formal.