The JLPT N1 grammar pattern ～極まる / ～極まりない expresses an extreme degree of a state or emotion. It is often used in formal or written contexts to show that something is exceedingly or excessively in a certain (usually negative) state.
1. Meaning
- ～極まる = extremely / exceedingly (used with na-adjectives)
- ～極まりない = extremely / utterly (more literary/formal)
This pattern often expresses strong judgment or criticism, and is not typically used in casual conversation.
2. Formation
| Pattern | Usage |
|---|---|
| Na-adjective (stem) + 極まる | Formal, written Japanese |
| Na-adjective (stem) + 極まりない | Even more formal or literary |
Common stems:
- 失礼 → 失礼極まる (extremely rude)
- 危険 → 危険極まりない (utterly dangerous)
3. Example Sentences
～極まる
- 彼の失礼極まる態度に、誰もが驚いた。
Everyone was shocked by his extremely rude attitude. - その発言は無礼極まるもので、会議室が一瞬静まり返った。
That statement was so extremely impolite that the room fell silent. - 彼女の愚か極まる行動が、会社に大きな損害を与えた。
Her extremely foolish actions caused great damage to the company.
～極まりない
- 危険極まりない運転は、他人の命をも危険にさらす。
Utterly dangerous driving puts other people’s lives at risk too. - その記事は不正確極まりない情報に満ちていた。
That article was full of extremely inaccurate information. - 彼の横柄な態度は不快極まりない。
His arrogant attitude is extremely unpleasant. - このような不誠実極まりない対応には、我慢できない。
I cannot tolerate such an utterly insincere response.
4. Common Adjectives Used
| Adjective | Stem | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 失礼だ | 失礼 | Rude |
| 無礼だ | 無礼 | Impolite |
| 危険だ | 危険 | Dangerous |
| 不快だ | 不快 | Unpleasant |
| 愚かだ | 愚か | Foolish |
| 不公平だ | 不公平 | Unfair |
| 無責任だ | 無責任 | Irresponsible |
5. Nuance & Register
- Very formal or literary Japanese
- Used in writing, speeches, or editorials
- Not commonly used in daily conversation
6. Practice Exercises
A. Fill in the blanks with 極まる or 極まりない
- 彼の無責任_________態度に、部長は怒りを隠せなかった。
- そんな危険_________行動を取るなんて、信じられない。
- あの俳優の演技は感動_________もので、涙が止まらなかった。
- 会議中に寝るなんて、失礼_________。
- その政治家の発言は不誠実_________。
B. Translate into Japanese using ～極まる or ～極まりない
- His rude behavior at the dinner was extremely unpleasant.
- It is extremely unfair to treat people differently based on their background.
- That is an utterly foolish decision.
- Her selfishness is truly extreme.
- This kind of response is extremely unprofessional.
C. Make your own sentences
Write 3 sentences using ～極まる and 3 sentences using ～極まりない. Focus on formal or critical situations.
7. Summary
| Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Expresses extreme degree, usually negative |
| Used with | Na-adjective stems |
| Forms | ～極まる (formal), ～極まりない (literary) |
| Tone | Critical, strong, formal |
8. Extra Tip
For everyday conversation, use softer alternatives such as:
- とても〜だ
- ひじょうに〜だ
- 〜すぎる
Use ～極まる／極まりない for writing, speeches, or strong formal expressions.
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