Japanese grammar
What does ～のごとき～ mean? Japanese grammar N1
～のごとき～ means … like…; … such as… (noun modifier, formal/archaic).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | N + の + ごとき + N |
| Romaji | nogotoki |
| Meaning | … like…; … such as… (noun modifier, formal/archaic) |
Forming it
| Noun (deity) | 神 + の + ごとき + 存在 |
|---|---|
| Noun (flower) | 花 + の + ごとき + 美しさ |
How to use it
The MODIFIER form of 「～のごとく」: a simile that modifies a noun. Formal, literary.
- 「AのごときB」 = B is like A. This is a NOUN-modifying form; to modify a predicate, use 「AのごとくV」 (see N1-106).
- Classical form of 「AのようなB」; formal, common in literary works/speeches.
- Also used for humility/contempt: 「私ごとき」 (someone as lowly as me), in which case 「の」 is not needed.
Examples
彼はチームにとって神のごとき存在だった。
To the team, he was a godlike presence.
花のごとき美しさに、誰もが目を奪われた。
Everyone was captivated by her flower-like beauty.
Keep in mind
- Attributive form: 「のごとき + N」.
- Adverbial form: 「のごとく + predicate」.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong神のごとく存在だった。
It was a presence like a god.
Correct神のごとき存在だった。
Before a NOUN, use 「ごとき」; 「ごとく」 is used before a predicate.
-
Wrong神ごとき存在だった。
It was a presence like a god.
Correct神のごとき存在だった。
The simile meaning needs 「の」; dropping 「の」 turns it into a contemptuous meaning ("someone/something as lowly as…").
Exam tips
- 「のごとき＋N」 = a simile modifier (classical form of ような); before a predicate, use 「のごとく」.