Japanese grammar
What does ～こそあれ mean? Japanese grammar N1
～こそあれ means although there is…; even though….
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | N + こそあれ い形容詞語幹 + くこそあれ |
| Romaji | kosoare |
| Meaning | although there is…; even though… |
Forming it
| Noun | 問題 + こそあれ |
|---|---|
| Noun (degree) | 多少の差 + こそあれ |
How to use it
Acknowledges that A exists, then denies/downplays its effect. Formal written style.
- 「～こそあれ」 acknowledges that A DOES exist (emphasized by 「こそ」), then states that the following clause is nonetheless the opposite/unaffected: "although A truly exists, ...".
- The following clause usually makes a positive assertion or denies something worse.
- Very formal, found in argumentative writing; colloquial speech uses 「～はあるが」.
Examples
多少の問題こそあれ、計画は順調に進んでいる。
There are minor issues, to be sure, but the plan is going smoothly.
程度の差こそあれ、誰もが不安を感じている。
To differing degrees, everyone feels uneasy.
Keep in mind
- Attaches to a noun.
- The following clause runs contrary to what A suggests.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong問題こそあれ、計画は失敗した。
There truly were issues, but the plan failed.
Correct問題こそあれ、計画は順調だ。
The clause after 「こそあれ」 must be the OPPOSITE of what A suggests (there are issues, but things are still fine) — not go along with A.
-
Wrong問題があるこそあれ、進んでいる。
There truly are issues, but it's still progressing.
Correct問題こそあれ、進んでいる。
「こそあれ」 attaches DIRECTLY to the noun — do not insert 「がある」.
Exam tips
- 「こそあれ」 = although A truly exists (the following clause is the opposite); formal.