Japanese grammar
What does ～はまだしも mean? Japanese grammar N2
～はまだしも means … is still just about acceptable, but….
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N2 |
|---|---|
| Structure | N + はまだしも、～ Vる／Vた + のはまだしも、～ |
| Romaji | hamadashimo |
| Meaning | … is still just about acceptable, but… |
Forming it
| Noun | 一度 → 一度はまだしも |
|---|---|
| Clause | 遅れる → 遅れるのはまだしも |
How to use it
Compares two things: A is still tolerable, but B is unacceptable. Complaining tone.
- 「AはまだしもB」 = A is still tolerable, but B…: 「一度はまだしも、三度も遅刻するのは困る」.
- The second clause MUST be a negative evaluation: 「困る・許せない・ひどい」.
- B must be MORE SEVERE than A — if B is milder, the sentence doesn't make sense.
Examples
一度はまだしも、三度も遅刻されては困る。
Once is one thing, but being late three times is a problem.
量が少ないのはまだしも、味まで悪いとは。
A small portion I could accept, but the taste being bad too…
Keep in mind
- B is more severe than A.
- The second clause is a negative evaluation.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong三度遅刻するのはまだしも、一度なら許せる。
Once is still tolerable, but being late three times is unforgivable.
Correct一度はまだしも、三度も遅刻するのは許せない。
The MILDER thing comes before 「はまだしも」.
-
Wrong量が少ないのはまだしも、味もいい。
A small portion is still tolerable, and the taste is good too.
Correct量が少ないのはまだしも、味まで悪い。
The second clause must be a negative evaluation.
Exam tips
- 「はまだしも」 = A is still tolerable, but B…; B is more severe, second clause negative.