Japanese grammar
What does ～くらい mean? Japanese grammar N3
～くらい means to the extent of ~ (degree / minimum baseline); approximately ~ (estimated quantity).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N3 |
|---|---|
| Structure | Vる + くらい N + くらい quantity + くらい |
| Romaji | kurai |
| Meaning | to the extent of ~ (degree / minimum baseline); approximately ~ (estimated quantity) |
Forming it
| Degree | 泣きたい + くらい |
|---|---|
| Quantity | 十分 + くらい |
How to use it
States the degree of a state through an illustrative example, or indicates an approximate quantity/time.
- 「～くらい／ぐらい」 states the DEGREE of a state through an illustrative example: "so frustrated I wanted to cry". Also used to indicate an APPROXIMATE quantity/time.
- In the degree sense, it often emphasizes a minimum level or "just... at least": 挨拶くらいしなさい (at least say hello).
- Close to 「ほど」 in the degree sense, but 「くらい」 is more casual and often used to emphasize a minimum level or to downplay something.
Examples
泣きたいくらい、悔しかった。
I was so frustrated I felt like crying.
駅まで十分くらいかかります。
It takes about ten minutes to the station.
Keep in mind
- 「くらい」 and 「ぐらい」 are interchangeable; 「ぐらい」 is more common after a voiced sound.
- Meaning "at least ... would be nice": 一言くらい言ってほしい.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong挨拶くらいをしなさい。
At the very least, you should say hello.
Correct挨拶くらいしなさい。
「くらい」 (minimum level) attaches directly; 「を」 is usually not inserted.
-
Wrong一時間ほどくらい待った。
I waited about an hour.
Correct一時間くらい待った。
Don't stack 「ほど」 and 「くらい」; pick one to indicate an approximation.
Exam tips
- 「くらい/ぐらい」 = degree (to the extent that, at least) or an approximate quantity; more casual than 「ほど」.