Japanese grammar
What does ～にとどまらず（動詞） mean? Japanese grammar N1
～にとどまらず（動詞） means not stopping at doing…, but also….
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | V普通形 + にとどまらず + ～も |
| Romaji | nitodomarazu(doushi) |
| Meaning | not stopping at doing…, but also… |
Forming it
| Verb | 働く + にとどまらず / 撮影する + にとどまらず |
|---|
How to use it
The VERB-connecting version of 「～にとどまらず」: a scope that extends beyond A.
- 「V＋にとどまらず」 = not stopping at doing A but also expanding to B. Same pattern as the noun-connecting version (see 「～にとどまらず」).
- The second clause often has 「も」 and must be BROADER than A.
- Formal, often used when describing spreading influence/activity.
Examples
彼は本業で働くにとどまらず、地域の活動にも参加している。
He doesn’t stop at his main job — he takes part in community activities too.
この機器は写真を撮るにとどまらず、動画編集もできる。
This device goes beyond taking photos — it can edit video as well.
Keep in mind
- B must be broader than A.
- The clause that follows usually includes 「も」.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong地域活動にとどまらず、本業も働く。
Not stopping at community activities, he also works his main job.
Correct本業にとどまらず、地域活動にも参加する。
A must be the NARROWER scope and B the broader one; reversing it breaks the expanding logic.
-
Wrong働くにとどまらずに、参加する。
Not stopping at working, I also take part.
Correct働くにとどまらず、参加する。
Connects directly; don't add 「に」.
Exam tips
- 「V+にとどまらず」 = the verb-connecting form of 「にとどまらず」; B must be broader than A.