Japanese grammar
What does ～にもまして mean? Japanese grammar N1
～にもまして means even more than; more than before.
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | N + にもまして |
| Romaji | nimomashite |
| Meaning | even more than; more than before |
Forming it
| Connection | N + にもまして |
|---|
How to use it
Compares to a baseline that was ALREADY high and says the current state exceeds even that. Emphasizes a heightened degree.
- 「Nにもまして」 = even more than N. Key point: N is already at a high level — 「去年にもまして暑い」 implies last year was already hot.
- Three common set phrases: 「以前にもまして」 (much more than before) ・ 「何にもまして」 (more than anything) ・ 「いつにもまして」 (more than usual).
- Different from 「より」 (neutral comparison): 「去年より暑い」 only says "hotter", without implying last year was already hot.
Examples
今年は去年にもまして暑い。
This year is even hotter than last year.
今日はいつにもまして元気そうだ。
He looks more energetic than ever today.
Keep in mind
- Not combined with 「より」: 「去年にもまして」, not 「去年よりもまして」.
- N must be a reference point that was already at a high level.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong去年よりもまして暑い。
Correct去年にもまして暑い。
This fixed pattern uses にもまして.
Exam tips
- 「にもまして」 = more than something already high; don't combine it with 「より」.