Japanese grammar
What does ～なりとも mean? Japanese grammar N1
～なりとも means even just a little; at least….
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | 数量詞 + なりとも N + なりとも |
| Romaji | naritomo |
| Meaning | even just a little; at least… |
Forming it
| Short time | 少し + なりとも |
|---|---|
| Small quantity | 一言 + なりとも |
How to use it
States a MINIMUM acceptable amount: even just that much is still better than nothing. Written.
- 「～なりとも」 states a MINIMUM amount: “even just that much would be fine/precious”. Formal, written.
- Usually goes with small amounts: 一言・少し・一時間.
- Different from 「なり～なり」 (listing alternatives): 「なりとも」 emphasizes a minimum, not a list.
Examples
一言なりとも謝罪の言葉が聞きたかった。
I wanted to hear at least a single word of apology.
少しなりともお役に立てれば幸いです。
I’d be glad if I could be of even a little help.
Keep in mind
- Used with a small quantity.
- Implies a nuance of "better than nothing".
Common mistakes
-
Wrong十時間なりとも練習した。
Even just an hour, I want to practice.
Correct一時間なりとも練習したい。
「なりとも」 states a MINIMUM amount (a small quantity), not used with a large quantity.
-
Wrongメールなりとも電話なりとも連絡して。
Please contact me by email or phone.
Correctメールなり電話なり連絡して。
Listing alternatives uses 「なり～なり」; 「なりとも」 only emphasizes a minimum amount.
Exam tips
- 「なりとも」 = even just...would be fine (a minimum amount); goes with small amounts.