Japanese grammar
What does ～なら～なりに mean? Japanese grammar N1
～なら～なりに means in a way appropriate to…; in one's own way.
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | N/普通形 + なら + 同語 + なりに |
| Romaji | nara narini |
| Meaning | in a way appropriate to…; in one's own way |
Forming it
| Noun (repeated) | 初心者 + なら + 初心者 + なりに |
|---|---|
| Adjective (repeated) | 狭い + なら + 狭い + なりに |
How to use it
Accepts condition A, then says there is still a value/way of doing things fitting for A. A positive tone.
- 「AならAなりに」 repeats the same word: "if it's A, then there's a way/value fitting for A too". An ACCEPTING, positive tone.
- The latter clause states an effort or value fitting the condition A.
- The short form 「～なりに」 (in one's own way) is also very common.
Examples
初心者なら初心者なりに、できることから始めればいい。
If you’re a beginner, start in a beginner’s way, with what you can do.
狭いなら狭いなりに、工夫すれば住みやすくなる。
If it’s small, make it work in a small-space way and it becomes livable.
Keep in mind
- The two clauses repeat the same word.
- The following clause is positive, not critical.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong初心者なら上級者なりに頑張る。
If you're a beginner, try in a beginner's way.
Correct初心者なら初心者なりに頑張る。
The two clauses must repeat the SAME word.
-
Wrong狭いなら狭いなりに、住めない。
If it's small, in a small way, it's still unlivable.
Correct狭いなら狭いなりに、住みやすくできる。
The latter clause carries a POSITIVE, accepting tone, not a denial.
Exam tips
- 「AならAなりに」 = if it's A, in A's own way (positive); the two clauses repeat the same word.