Japanese grammar
What does ～にかぎらず mean? Japanese grammar N2
～にかぎらず means not limited to… (but extends further).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N2 |
|---|---|
| Structure | N + に限らず |
| Romaji | nikagirazu |
| Meaning | not limited to… (but extends further) |
Forming it
| Noun (object) | 子供 + に限らず |
|---|---|
| Noun (point in time) | 週末 + に限らず |
How to use it
Extends beyond a scope/subject: not only A but other things as well.
- 「～に限らず」 = "not limited to A (B, C… as well)". Extends the scope.
- Often followed by 「も」 in the second clause: A に限らず B も.
- Different from 「を問わず」 (regardless of a criterion, no distinction) and 「に限って」 (emphasizes one particular case).
Examples
この店は週末に限らず、平日も混んでいる。
This shop is crowded not only on weekends but on weekdays too.
子供に限らず、大人もアニメを楽しむ。
Not only children but adults also enjoy anime.
Keep in mind
- Attaches to a noun.
- The second clause states a scope broader than A.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong週末に限らずに、混んでいる。
Not only on weekends but always crowded.
Correct週末に限らず、混んでいる。
「に限らず」 attaches directly, without adding 「に」.
-
Wrong子供に限らず、子供が好きだ。
Not only children but children also like it.
Correct子供に限らず、大人も好きだ。
The clause after 「に限らず」 must EXTEND beyond A (add another subject), not repeat A.
Exam tips
- 「に限らず」 = not limited to A (extends the scope); different from 「に限って」 (emphasizes A in particular).