Japanese grammar
What does ～末（に） mean? Japanese grammar N2
～末（に） means after… (going on for a long time), finally….
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N2 |
|---|---|
| Structure | Nの + 末（に） Vた + 末（に） |
| Romaji | sue(ni) |
| Meaning | after… (going on for a long time), finally… |
Forming it
| Noun | 議論 → 長い議論の末 |
|---|---|
| Verb | 悩んだ → さんざん悩んだ末 |
How to use it
After a LONG and arduous process, one reaches a conclusion. The second clause is the final outcome.
- 「～末に」 = after so much… finally: 「長い議論の末、結論が出た」「さんざん悩んだ末、留学を決めた」.
- A verb MUST be in the た form; a noun connects with 「の」 — the catalog entry lists only the noun form and is missing the 「Vた末」 form.
- The process must be lengthy and effortful; the second clause is the FINAL outcome, not used for something that happens right away.
Examples
長い議論の末、ようやく結論が出た。
After a long discussion, we finally reached a conclusion.
さんざん悩んだ末に、留学することを決めた。
After agonizing over it, I finally decided to study abroad.
Keep in mind
- A verb uses the た form, a noun attaches with 「の」.
- The process must be long and effortful.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong悩む末に、決めた。
After agonizing for a long time, I decided.
Correct悩んだ末に、決めた。
The verb must be in the た form.
-
Wrong一分考えた末に、答えた。
I thought about it a little, then answered.
Correct少し考えてから、答えた。
For too short a process, use 「てから」.
Exam tips
- 「末に」 = after a long process, finally…; Vた／Nの.