Introduction For Japanese language learners preparing for the JLPT N1 examination, mastering nuanced grammar patterns is essential. One such pattern is ～きらいがある (kirai ga aru), which allows speakers to express tendencies or habitual behaviors with a slightly negative or critical nuance. This blog post will explore this sophisticated expression in…
April 26, 2025 | Japanese Language Expert | JLPT N1 Grammar What is ～ながらに（して）? The grammar pattern ～ながらに（して） is an advanced Japanese expression typically found in formal writing, literary works, and academic contexts. This N1-level grammar carries a nuanced meaning that can be challenging for Japanese learners to master. Basic…
Introduction The grammar pattern ～とばかり（に） is an N1 level expression used to describe actions that are performed in a way that gives a certain impression, or actions that appear as if they have a specific intention or meaning. This pattern helps convey the feeling or impression behind someone’s actions rather…
Introduction The grammar pattern ～んばかりだ is an N1 level expression used to describe actions that are on the verge of happening, situations that are about to occur, or emotions/conditions that are so intense they seem about to manifest physically. This grammar pattern conveys a sense of imminence and intensity that…
Welcome to our deep dive into advanced Japanese grammar! Today we’re exploring the N1-level grammar pattern ～ならいざしらず (nara iza shirazu), a sophisticated expression that will elevate your Japanese to a more polished, native-like level. What Does ～ならいざしらず Mean? The expression ～ならいざしらず can be translated as: This expression is used to…
At the N1 level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), you will encounter many grammar structures that are used in formal settings to express various meanings. One such grammar structure is ～を限りに (wo kagiri ni), which is used to indicate that something will be limited to a particular time,…
In the N1 level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), you will encounter a variety of grammar structures that help express complex ideas. One such structure is ～に至るまで (ni itaru made), which is used to describe the extent or culmination of an event, action, or time period. 🧠 Meaning…
At the N1 level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), you’ll encounter grammar that helps express logical sequences and formal narrative flow. One such grammar structure is ～を皮切りに（して）・～を皮切りとして, which is used to indicate the beginning of a series of events or actions. 🧠 Meaning This grammar structure can be…
Meaning ～そばから is used to describe a situation where, as soon as something happens, something else immediately follows — often something that undoes the first action. It typically expresses a repeated cycle, especially when something is done over and over again but is undone just as quickly. Translation: “As soon…