At the A1 level, learners are just beginning their journey into Japanese syntax and vocabulary. While 'shikamo' is officially categorized as a B1 level word, A1 learners will undoubtedly encounter it in their listening practice, anime, or interactions with native speakers. At this stage, the primary goal is not active production but passive recognition. When an A1 learner hears 'shikamo', they should recognize it as a signal that the speaker is adding more information to what was just said. It is similar to hearing 'and' or 'also' in English, but with a bit more energy. A1 learners should focus on understanding the basic sentence structure where 'shikamo' connects two simple ideas. For example, recognizing that 'Takai. Shikamo, mazui.' means 'Expensive. And also, bad tasting.' is a great milestone. Teachers often introduce basic conjunctions like 'soshite' (and) or 'demo' (but) first, but 'shikamo' naturally appears in beginner dialogues when characters are expressing strong feelings or complaining. A1 learners should not worry about the complex polarity rules or formal versus informal nuances yet. Instead, they should simply note its presence and understand its basic function as an additive connector. Flashcards at this level might just have 'shikamo' translated simply as 'moreover' or 'what's more.' Listening exercises should highlight the pause before 'shikamo' and the emphasis on the following word. By building this passive awareness early on, A1 learners lay a solid foundation for when they will eventually need to use the word actively in more complex sentence structures at higher levels.
As learners progress to the A2 level, they begin to construct longer, more connected sentences. This is the perfect time to start experimenting with 'shikamo' in controlled, simple contexts. A2 learners already know how to use 'soshite' to say 'and', but they can now learn that 'shikamo' is used when the second piece of information is surprising or makes the first point even stronger. For instance, an A2 learner can practice describing their weekend: 'Eiga o mimashita. Shikamo, tomodachi to mimashita.' (I watched a movie. Moreover, I watched it with a friend.) While this is a bit clunky, it practices the mechanics. More naturally, they can connect adjectives: 'Kono kaban wa yasukute, shikamo kirei desu.' (This bag is cheap, and moreover, pretty.) At this level, the focus should be on ensuring the polarity matches—connecting two positive things or two negative things. A2 learners should practice avoiding the mistake of using 'shikamo' for contrasting ideas (like 'cheap but ugly'). Role-playing exercises where learners complain about a bad restaurant or praise a good product are excellent ways to practice 'shikamo'. They should also start noticing the frequent pairing of 'shikamo' with the particle 'mo' (also) in the second clause, which makes the sentence sound much more natural. By the end of the A2 level, learners should feel comfortable using 'shikamo' to add emphasis to their simple sentences, moving beyond the basic 'soshite' and adding a layer of expressiveness to their Japanese.
The B1 level is where 'shikamo' truly belongs as a core vocabulary item. At this intermediate stage, learners are expected to express their opinions, narrate events, and provide detailed descriptions. 'Shikamo' becomes an essential tool for these tasks. B1 learners must master the nuance of 'compounding emphasis'—understanding that 'shikamo' doesn't just add information; it escalates the situation. They should be able to fluidly use it in both spoken and written Japanese. In conversation, a B1 learner should be able to use 'shikamo' to build a compelling narrative: 'Kinou wa ame ga futte, shikamo kaze mo tsuyokatta node, uchi ni imashita.' (Yesterday it rained, and moreover the wind was strong, so I stayed home.) They should also understand its use as a conversational prompt ('Shikamo?'). In reading, B1 learners will encounter 'shikamo' in articles, essays, and stories, and they must be able to quickly grasp how it connects the author's arguments. This is also the level where learners should start distinguishing 'shikamo' from similar conjunctions like 'sore ni' (besides) and 'sono ue' (on top of that). They need to know that 'sore ni' is more casual and 'sono ue' is slightly more formal. Mastery at the B1 level means using 'shikamo' naturally without translating it directly from English in their heads, but rather feeling the logical flow of the Japanese sentence. It is a key word for passing the JLPT N3, as it frequently appears in grammar and reading comprehension sections.
At the B2 upper-intermediate level, learners are dealing with complex texts and abstract topics. The use of 'shikamo' expands from simple physical descriptions or daily complaints to sophisticated argumentation and rhetorical emphasis. B2 learners will use 'shikamo' in debates, presentations, and analytical essays. They must understand how to use it to deliver a 'knockout punch' in an argument. For example, when discussing environmental issues: 'Kono shisaku wa kankyou ni yasashii. Shikamo, keizaiteki na kouka mo kitai dekiru.' (This policy is environmentally friendly. Moreover, economic benefits can also be expected.) At this level, the grammatical integration of 'shikamo' must be flawless. Learners should effortlessly combine it with complex verb conjugations, passive voices, and conditional clauses. Furthermore, B2 learners should be highly sensitive to register. They need to know when 'shikamo' might sound too conversational for a highly formal document and when to substitute it with 'sarani' or 'sono ue'. However, in persuasive speech or dynamic writing, 'shikamo' remains a powerful choice. Listening comprehension at the B2 level involves catching 'shikamo' in fast-paced news broadcasts or natural native dialogues, where it might be slurred or spoken quickly. The learner must immediately anticipate the compounding information that follows. By mastering 'shikamo' at the B2 level, learners demonstrate a strong command of Japanese discourse markers, allowing them to structure their thoughts logically and persuasively in real-time communication.
For C1 advanced learners, 'shikamo' is a fully integrated part of their linguistic repertoire, used with native-like intuition. At this level, the focus is on the subtle pragmatic and sociolinguistic functions of the word. C1 learners understand that 'shikamo' can carry various emotional undertones—irony, sarcasm, profound disappointment, or extreme enthusiasm—depending entirely on the context and intonation. They can manipulate these undertones effectively in their own speech. For instance, using 'shikamo' to deliver a deadpan, sarcastic remark about a disastrous situation. In reading, C1 learners encounter 'shikamo' in modern literature, editorials, and academic papers, effortlessly parsing its role in complex, multi-clause sentences. They also understand its historical and etymological roots, recognizing how the combination of 'shika' (so) and 'mo' (even/also) gives the word its inherent weight. At the C1 level, learners rarely make grammatical errors with 'shikamo'; instead, their challenge is stylistic perfection. They know exactly when to use 'shikamo' versus 'omake ni' (for a colloquial, exasperated tone) or 'sarani' (for objective progression). They can use 'shikamo' to control the pacing of a conversation, holding the listener's attention before delivering a crucial piece of information. In business Japanese (Keigo contexts), C1 learners know how to soften the impact of 'shikamo' if necessary, or when to avoid it entirely in favor of more deferential transitions. Mastery here is about absolute precision and rhetorical elegance.
At the C2 mastery level, the learner's understanding and usage of 'shikamo' are indistinguishable from an educated native speaker. C2 learners possess a deep, almost instinctual grasp of the word's rhythm, cultural resonance, and literary applications. They can appreciate how classical Japanese authors might have used variations of 'shikamo' and how its usage has evolved in contemporary media. A C2 learner can seamlessly deploy 'shikamo' in highly specialized contexts, such as legal arguments, philosophical debates, or poetic prose, where the exact weight of every conjunction matters. They understand the micro-pauses and specific intonation patterns that native speakers use around 'shikamo' to maximize its psychological impact on the listener. Furthermore, C2 learners can play with the expectations set by 'shikamo'. While the rule is that it connects statements of the same polarity, a C2 speaker might intentionally subvert this for a specific, advanced rhetorical or comedic effect, knowing exactly how to bend the rules without breaking them. They can analyze a text and explain precisely why the author chose 'shikamo' over 'sono ue' or 'sarani', detailing the subtle shifts in tone and perspective. At this ultimate level of proficiency, 'shikamo' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a finely tuned instrument for manipulating discourse, expressing complex emotional states, and demonstrating absolute mastery over the flow and structure of the Japanese language.

しかも في 30 ثانية

  • Adds surprising or emphatic info.
  • Means 'moreover' or 'what's more'.
  • Must connect same polarity (+/+ or -/-).
  • Often paired with 'mo' (also).
The Japanese conjunction 'shikamo' (しかも) is an incredibly versatile and frequently used word in both spoken and written Japanese, functioning primarily to add supplementary, often emphatic, information to a preceding statement. When translating 'shikamo' into English, learners often rely on words like 'moreover,' 'furthermore,' 'besides,' or 'what is more.' However, to truly grasp the essence of this conjunction, one must delve deeper into its nuanced implications and the specific contexts in which it thrives. Unlike a simple 'and' (soshite), 'shikamo' carries a distinct weight of surprise, emphasis, or compounding significance. It signals to the listener or reader that the information about to follow is not merely an additional fact, but a crucial piece of data that amplifies, complicates, or significantly enhances the initial point.

このレストランは安くて、しかも美味しい。

For instance, if you are describing a restaurant, saying it is delicious and cheap using 'soshite' is perfectly fine. But using 'shikamo' elevates the statement: 'The food is incredibly delicious; moreover (shikamo), it is surprisingly cheap!' This creates a compounding effect, highlighting the extraordinary nature of the combined attributes.
Etymology
The etymology of 'shikamo' traces back to classical Japanese, combining 'shika' (meaning 'so' or 'in that way') with the inclusive particle 'mo' (meaning 'also' or 'even'). Literally, it translates to 'even so' or 'and also in that way.'
Over centuries of linguistic evolution, this combination solidified into the modern conjunction we use today, retaining that core sense of adding something significant to an already established premise. Understanding this historical background helps learners appreciate why 'shikamo' feels more impactful than other basic connectors. Furthermore, 'shikamo' is deeply embedded in the rhythm of Japanese discourse. It allows speakers to build momentum in their arguments or narratives.

彼は遅刻した。しかも謝らなかった。

In a business context, a salesperson might highlight a product's efficiency, and then deploy 'shikamo' to deliver the final selling point: its cost-effectiveness. In casual conversations, friends use it to share shocking gossip or complain about a series of unfortunate events, such as missing a train and, what's more, losing their wallet.
Emotional Weight
The emotional weight of shikamo cannot be overstated. It often carries a tone of exasperation, delight, or sheer astonishment depending on the context.
The versatility of 'shikamo' across different registers—from highly formal academic papers to relaxed, everyday banter—makes it an indispensable tool for anyone aiming to achieve fluency and natural expression in Japanese.

雨が降っている。しかも風が強い。

To master 'shikamo,' one must practice recognizing the emotional or logical escalation it introduces. It is not merely a bridge between two clauses; it is a spotlight illuminating the second clause, demanding the audience's attention and emphasizing its relevance to the overall message. By internalizing this function, learners can transition from constructing flat, sequential sentences to crafting dynamic, compelling, and highly articulate Japanese prose and speech.

仕事が忙しい。しかも給料が安い。

The journey to mastering such conjunctions is a critical step in moving beyond intermediate proficiency and stepping confidently into advanced fluency, where the subtle shades of meaning dictate the true impact of one's communication.
Summary
In summary, shikamo is the ultimate tool for compounding information, adding surprise, and elevating the rhetorical power of your Japanese sentences.

問題は難しい。しかも時間が短い。

Using 'shikamo' correctly requires an understanding of Japanese sentence structure and the logical relationship between the clauses it connects. Grammatically, 'shikamo' is a conjunction (接続詞 - setsuzokushi) that typically appears at the beginning of a sentence to connect it to the previous one, or it can be used within a single sentence to connect two clauses or phrases. The most fundamental rule is that the information following 'shikamo' must be of the same polarity (positive or negative) as the information preceding it, but it must add a layer of intensity or surprise.

この本は高い。しかもつまらない。

For example, you cannot say 'The food is delicious, shikamo it is expensive' if you consider 'expensive' to be a negative trait while 'delicious' is positive. Instead, you would use 'shikashi' (however). 'Shikamo' is strictly for compounding traits: 'The food is terrible, shikamo it is expensive' (both negative) or 'The food is delicious, shikamo it is cheap' (both positive).
Polarity Rule
Always ensure that the two statements connected by shikamo share the same positive or negative direction. Mixing them sounds unnatural.
When used to connect two independent sentences, 'shikamo' simply starts the second sentence. 'Kare wa atama ga ii. Shikamo, seikaku mo ii.' (He is smart. Moreover, his personality is good too.) Notice the frequent pairing of 'shikamo' with the inclusive particle 'mo' (also/too) in the second clause. This 'shikamo... mo...' pattern is a highly natural and common way to emphasize the addition of information.

彼女は美人だ。しかも頭も良い。

When connecting phrases within a single sentence, 'shikamo' often follows the te-form of verbs or adjectives. 'Kono pasokon wa karukute, shikamo kouseinou da.' (This laptop is light, and moreover, high-performance.) Here, 'karukute' is the te-form of 'karui' (light). This structure creates a smooth, flowing sentence that effectively stacks attributes.
Te-form Connection
Using the te-form before shikamo within a single sentence is the standard way to list multiple compounding adjectives or verbs.

部屋は狭くて、しかも暗い。

Another crucial aspect of using 'shikamo' is understanding its placement in spoken Japanese. In conversation, native speakers often use it as an interjection or a standalone prompt to encourage the speaker to continue. If someone says, 'I had a terrible day yesterday,' the listener might respond with 'Shikamo?' (And then what? / And what else?), prompting the speaker to reveal the compounding bad news. This interactive use highlights its function as a marker of escalating narrative tension.

道に迷った。しかも財布を落とした。

In formal writing, 'shikamo' should be used judiciously. While it is perfectly acceptable in essays and reports, overusing it can make the writing feel overly dramatic or colloquial. In highly formal contexts, alternatives like 'sono ue' (その上) or 'sarani' (さらに) might be preferred, though 'shikamo' remains a strong choice when the writer specifically wants to emphasize the surprising or compounding nature of the additional point.
Formal Writing
In academic or highly formal business writing, consider using 'sarani' or 'sono ue' if 'shikamo' feels too conversational or dramatic.

彼は有罪だ。しかも反省していない。

Ultimately, mastering the use of 'shikamo' involves practicing these syntactic patterns and developing an intuitive feel for when a statement requires that extra punch of emphasis. By paying attention to how native speakers deploy it in various contexts, learners can refine their own usage and communicate with greater nuance and impact.
The beauty of 'shikamo' lies in its ubiquity across almost all domains of the Japanese language. You will encounter it in casual chats, formal news broadcasts, dramatic anime scenes, and sophisticated literature. Its core function—adding surprising or emphatic information—is universally useful, making it a staple of everyday communication. In daily life, 'shikamo' is frequently heard in complaints or enthusiastic recommendations.

今日は残業だ。しかも終電がない。

For example, a friend complaining about their job might say, 'The work is hard, shikamo the boss is terrible.' Conversely, someone recommending a new movie might exclaim, 'The story is great, shikamo the animation is beautiful!' This dual utility for both positive and negative compounding makes it incredibly common in informal settings.
Daily Conversation
In everyday chats, shikamo is the go-to word for venting frustrations or hyping up recommendations.
In the realm of media, particularly anime and manga, 'shikamo' is often used to heighten dramatic tension. A villain revealing their master plan might list their advantages, concluding with a devastating 'shikamo...' to reveal their ultimate trump card.

敵は強い。しかも数が多い。

Similarly, a protagonist facing impossible odds might analyze the situation: 'The enemy is strong, shikamo we are out of time.' This dramatic usage perfectly encapsulates the word's ability to compound stakes and escalate a narrative. In news broadcasts and journalism, 'shikamo' is employed to present compounding facts, often regarding social issues, economics, or weather. A weather reporter might state, 'A typhoon is approaching, shikamo it is expected to be the strongest this year.'
News & Media
Journalists use shikamo to emphasize the severity or unprecedented nature of an event by stacking facts.

物価が上がっている。しかも税金も上がる。

In business environments, 'shikamo' is a powerful tool for persuasion and negotiation. When pitching a proposal, a professional might outline the benefits and use 'shikamo' to deliver the most compelling point, such as cost savings or rapid implementation. 'This software improves efficiency, shikamo it requires no initial investment.'

この製品は高品質だ。しかも低価格だ。

However, in highly formal apologies or delicate situations, 'shikamo' might be avoided as it can sound too forceful or argumentative. In literature, authors use 'shikamo' to build descriptive depth or psychological complexity. It allows writers to layer attributes onto a character or setting, creating a richer, more textured narrative.
Literature
Authors utilize shikamo to weave complex descriptions, adding layers of nuance to characters and environments.

夜は深く、しかも静かだった。

By exposing yourself to these varied contexts—from the casual complaints of friends to the structured arguments of news anchors—you will develop a comprehensive understanding of how 'shikamo' functions as a dynamic pillar of Japanese expression. Its presence is a reliable indicator that the speaker is about to deliver a point of significant weight or surprise, making it a crucial keyword for listening comprehension and active engagement.
While 'shikamo' is an incredibly useful conjunction, learners often stumble when trying to integrate it into their active vocabulary. The most frequent and glaring mistake is violating the 'polarity rule.' As mentioned earlier, 'shikamo' must connect two statements that share the same logical direction—either both positive or both negative.

彼は優しい。しかも面白い。

A common error is using it like the English 'however' or 'but.' For instance, saying 'Kono heya wa hiroi, shikamo kitanai' (This room is spacious, shikamo it is dirty) sounds incredibly unnatural to a native speaker. 'Spacious' is generally a positive attribute, while 'dirty' is negative. In this case, 'shikashi' (however) or 'ga' (but) must be used. 'Shikamo' is strictly for compounding: 'The room is narrow, shikamo it is dirty' (both negative).
Polarity Error
Never use shikamo to introduce a contrasting idea. It is not a substitute for 'but' or 'however'.
Another frequent mistake is overusing 'shikamo' in situations where a simpler conjunction like 'soshite' (and) would be more appropriate. Because 'shikamo' carries a sense of emphasis or surprise, using it for mundane, expected additions makes the speaker sound overly dramatic.

朝起きて、しかも顔を洗った。(Unnatural)

For example, 'I woke up, shikamo I brushed my teeth.' Brushing your teeth after waking up is a standard sequence of events, not a surprising or emphatic addition. Here, 'soshite' or the te-form is correct. 'Shikamo' should be reserved for situations where the addition genuinely adds weight: 'I woke up late, shikamo there was no hot water!' Learners also sometimes confuse 'shikamo' with 'sore ni' (besides/in addition). While they are often interchangeable, 'sore ni' is generally more casual and simply adds an item to a list, whereas 'shikamo' emphasizes the compounding nature of the addition.
Shikamo vs Sore ni
Sore ni is like adding an item to a shopping list. Shikamo is like adding a plot twist to a story.

熱がある。しかも咳も出る。

Syntactically, a minor but common mistake is forgetting to use the particle 'mo' (also) in the clause following 'shikamo.' While not strictly grammatically required in every single case, the pattern 'shikamo... mo...' is so deeply ingrained in natural Japanese that omitting it can sometimes make the sentence feel slightly disjointed or less impactful.

彼は英語が話せる。しかもフランス語も話せる。

Finally, pronunciation and intonation play a role. 'Shikamo' should be pronounced with a relatively flat intonation, not with a heavy stress on the first syllable like an English exclamation. Mispronouncing it can distract the listener from the actual point you are trying to emphasize.
Intonation
Keep the pitch relatively flat. Do not spike the pitch on 'shi' or 'ka' excessively.

パソコンが壊れた。しかもデータが消えた。

By being mindful of polarity, reserving it for emphatic additions, understanding its relationship with similar words, and practicing natural syntax and intonation, learners can easily avoid these common pitfalls and use 'shikamo' with native-like precision.
The Japanese language boasts a rich array of conjunctions used to add information, and understanding the subtle distinctions between 'shikamo' and its synonyms is a hallmark of advanced proficiency. The most common similar words are 'sore ni' (それに), 'sono ue' (その上), 'sarani' (さらに), and 'omake ni' (おまけに). While they all generally translate to 'moreover' or 'in addition,' their nuances and appropriate contexts vary significantly.

疲れた。しかもお腹が空いた。

'Sore ni' is perhaps the most frequent alternative. It is more casual than 'shikamo' and is primarily used to simply add another item to a list of reasons or facts. It lacks the strong element of surprise or compounding emphasis that 'shikamo' carries. If you are listing reasons why you don't want to go out—'It's raining, sore ni I'm tired'—it feels like a simple accumulation of facts.
Sore ni (それに)
Casual, simple addition. Like adding items to a list without necessarily escalating the emotional weight.
'Sono ue' (literally 'on top of that') is very similar in meaning to 'shikamo' but tends to be slightly more formal and is often preferred in written Japanese or polite speech. It clearly paints a picture of stacking one fact on top of another. 'The hotel was expensive, sono ue the service was poor.' It shares the compounding nature of 'shikamo' but feels a bit more structured and less conversational.

雪が降っている。しかも積もっている。

'Sarani' (furthermore/even more) focuses on degree or progression. It is often used when something is escalating or continuing in the same direction. 'The wind blew hard, sarani the rain intensified.' While 'shikamo' adds a new, surprising fact, 'sarani' often amplifies an existing condition. It is highly versatile and used in both formal and informal contexts.
Sarani (さらに)
Focuses on progression or an increase in degree. Often translates to 'furthermore' or 'even more'.

彼は遅刻した。しかも嘘をついた。

'Omake ni' (to make matters worse / as an added bonus) is highly colloquial and carries a strong emotional undertone, often negative (though it can be positive). It literally implies an 'extra' or 'throw-in' that tips the scales. 'I lost my keys, omake ni it started raining.' It is very similar to 'shikamo' in its emphatic nature but is restricted to casual speech and feels a bit more dramatic or exasperated.

テストは難しかった。しかも範囲が広かった。

To summarize, choose 'sore ni' for simple casual lists, 'sono ue' for formal stacking of facts, 'sarani' for progressive escalation, 'omake ni' for dramatic casual storytelling, and 'shikamo' for that perfect, versatile balance of compounding emphasis and surprise that works in almost any context.
Omake ni (おまけに)
Highly casual, often implies 'to make matters worse' or an unexpected 'bonus' to a situation.

道が混んでいる。しかも事故があった。

Mastering these distinctions allows you to express your thoughts with the exact shade of meaning intended, demonstrating a deep and sophisticated command of Japanese conjunctions.

How Formal Is It?

مستوى الصعوبة

قواعد يجب معرفتها

Te-form for connecting adjectives (〜くて、〜で)

Particle 'mo' (も) for addition

Not only A but also B (〜だけでなく〜も)

Bakari ka (〜ばかりか)

Ue ni (〜うえに)

أمثلة حسب المستوى

1

この りんご は あまい です。しかも、やすい です。

This apple is sweet. Moreover, it is cheap.

Basic connection of two positive traits.

2

きょう は あめ です。しかも、さむい です。

Today is rain. Moreover, it is cold.

Basic connection of two negative traits.

3

かれ は おおきい です。しかも、つよい です。

He is big. Moreover, he is strong.

Connecting physical attributes.

4

この ほん は おもい です。しかも、おおきい です。

This book is heavy. Moreover, it is big.

Connecting physical attributes.

5

へや は くらい です。しかも、せまい です。

The room is dark. Moreover, it is narrow.

Describing a room.

6

テスト は むずかしい です。しかも、ながい です。

The test is difficult. Moreover, it is long.

Describing a test.

7

くるま は きたない です。しかも、ふるい です。

The car is dirty. Moreover, it is old.

Describing a car.

8

ケーキ は おいしい です。しかも、きれい です。

The cake is delicious. Moreover, it is pretty.

Describing food.

1

このレストランは安くて、しかも美味しいです。

This restaurant is cheap, and moreover, delicious.

Using te-form to connect adjectives before shikamo.

2

昨日は忙しかったです。しかも、頭が痛かったです。

Yesterday was busy. Moreover, my head hurt.

Connecting past tense sentences.

3

彼女はピアノが弾けます。しかも、歌も上手です。

She can play the piano. Moreover, she is good at singing too.

Using 'mo' (also) in the second clause.

4

このアパートは駅から近くて、しかも静かです。

This apartment is close to the station, and moreover, quiet.

Connecting i-adjective and na-adjective.

5

道に迷いました。しかも、雨が降ってきました。

I got lost. Moreover, it started raining.

Connecting actions/events.

6

このパソコンは軽いです。しかも、安いです。

This laptop is light. Moreover, it is cheap.

Simple sentence connection.

7

彼は英語を話します。しかも、フランス語も話します。

He speaks English. Moreover, he speaks French too.

Connecting abilities.

8

仕事は大変で、しかも給料が低いです。

The work is hard, and moreover, the salary is low.

Connecting na-adjective and i-adjective.

1

あの映画はストーリーが面白くて、しかも映像がとても綺麗だった。

That movie had an interesting story, and moreover, the visuals were very beautiful.

Natural compounding of positive reviews.

2

今日は寝坊した。しかも、電車に乗り遅れてしまった。

I overslept today. Moreover, I missed the train.

Compounding negative events.

3

この店はサービスが悪く、しかも値段が高いので、二度と行かない。

This shop has bad service, and moreover, the prices are high, so I will never go again.

Using shikamo to justify a strong conclusion.

4

彼は一流のスポーツ選手であり、しかも学業の成績も優秀だ。

He is a top-class athlete, and moreover, his academic grades are excellent.

Connecting noun phrases with 'de ari'.

5

風邪を引いて熱がある。しかも、明日は重要な会議があるんだ。

I caught a cold and have a fever. Moreover, I have an important meeting tomorrow.

Adding a complicating factor to a situation.

6

この新しいスマートフォンは機能が豊富で、しかも使いやすい。

This new smartphone is rich in features, and moreover, easy to use.

Describing product features.

7

財布を落とした。しかも、中には現金がたくさん入っていた。

I dropped my wallet. Moreover, there was a lot of cash inside.

Escalating the severity of a problem.

8

彼女はいつも遅刻する。しかも、絶対に謝らない。

She is always late. Moreover, she absolutely never apologizes.

Expressing frustration with compounding bad habits.

1

このプロジェクトは予算が不足しており、しかも納期が極端に短い。

This project lacks budget, and moreover, the deadline is extremely short.

Formal business context.

2

彼の提案は独創的であり、しかも実現可能性が非常に高いと評価された。

His proposal was evaluated as being original, and moreover, highly feasible.

Using formal vocabulary and passive voice.

3

地球温暖化は進行している。しかも、そのスピードは予想を上回っている。

Global warming is progressing. Moreover, its speed is exceeding expectations.

Discussing global issues.

4

その政治家は汚職疑惑を否定した。しかも、証拠を隠滅しようとした形跡がある。

The politician denied the corruption allegations. Moreover, there are traces that he tried to destroy evidence.

News/journalism style reporting.

5

この論文は論理が飛躍しており、しかもデータに誤りが多く見受けられる。

This paper has leaps in logic, and moreover, many errors can be seen in the data.

Academic critique.

6

彼女の演技は観客を魅了し、しかも批評家からも絶賛された。

Her acting fascinated the audience, and moreover, was highly praised by critics.

Reviewing arts and entertainment.

7

システムに障害が発生し、しかもバックアップデータまで破損していた。

A system failure occurred, and moreover, even the backup data was corrupted.

Technical problem escalation using 'made' (even).

8

彼は会社を辞めた。しかも、ライバル企業に転職したらしい。

He quit the company. Moreover, it seems he changed jobs to a rival company.

Sharing surprising gossip/news.

1

被告人は犯行を否認し、しかも被害者に対して一切の謝罪の意を示していない。

The defendant denies the crime, and moreover, has shown absolutely no intention of apologizing to the victim.

Highly formal legal/news register.

2

この新素材は軽量かつ高強度であり、しかも製造コストを大幅に削減できるという画期的なものだ。

This new material is lightweight and high-strength, and moreover, it is an epoch-making thing that can significantly reduce manufacturing costs.

Technical/industrial presentation.

3

事態は深刻化の一途を辿っており、しかも有効な打開策は未だに見出されていないのが現状である。

The situation continues to worsen, and moreover, the current reality is that no effective breakthrough has yet been found.

Formal analysis of a crisis.

4

彼の発言は場違いであったばかりか、しかも相手の尊厳を著しく傷つけるものであった。

His remark was not only out of place, but moreover, it significantly damaged the other party's dignity.

Combining 'bakari ka' (not only) with 'shikamo'.

5

その計画はリスクが高すぎる。しかも、失敗した際の代替案が全く用意されていない。

That plan is too high-risk. Moreover, there is absolutely no alternative plan prepared in case of failure.

Critical business analysis.

6

彼女の作品は伝統的な技法を踏襲しつつ、しかも現代的な感性を見事に融合させている。

While following traditional techniques, her work moreover splendidly fuses modern sensibilities.

Sophisticated art critique.

7

政府の対応は後手に回り、しかも国民への説明責任を十分に果たしていないと批判されている。

The government's response has been reactive, and moreover, it is criticized for not fully fulfilling its accountability to the public.

Political commentary.

8

この地域の過疎化は止まらず、しかも高齢化率が全国平均を大きく上回っている。

Depopulation in this region is not stopping, and moreover, the aging rate greatly exceeds the national average.

Sociological reporting.

1

かくして彼は莫大な富を築き上げ、しかもその過程において誰一人として不幸にすることはなかったというから驚きである。

Thus he built up enormous wealth, and moreover, it is surprising because it is said that he did not make a single person unhappy in the process.

Literary narrative style.

2

その一言は彼の核心を突き、しかも反論の余地を一切与えないほどの鋭さを持っていた。

That single word struck his core, and moreover, possessed such sharpness as to leave absolutely no room for counterargument.

Psychological description in literature.

3

歴史的建造物が無惨にも破壊され、しかもそれが開発という美名の下に行われたことに憤りを禁じ得ない。

Historical buildings were ruthlessly destroyed, and moreover, I cannot help but feel indignant that it was done under the beautiful name of development.

Expressing profound indignation in an essay.

4

彼は自らの過ちを認めるどころか、しかもそれを他者の責任に転嫁しようとする厚顔無恥な態度をとった。

Far from admitting his own mistakes, he moreover took a brazen attitude of trying to shift the responsibility onto others.

Complex syntax combining 'dokoro ka' and 'shikamo'.

5

この古文書は保存状態が極めて良好であり、しかも未解明の歴史的事実を紐解く鍵となる可能性を秘めている。

This ancient document is in extremely good preservation, and moreover, holds the potential to be the key to unraveling unexplained historical facts.

Academic/historical analysis.

6

自然の猛威の前に人間は無力であり、しかもその脅威は常に予測不可能な形で襲いかかってくる。

Humans are powerless before the fury of nature, and moreover, that threat always strikes in unpredictable ways.

Philosophical reflection on nature.

7

その制度は時代遅れであるばかりでなく、しかも現場の混乱を助長するだけの有害無益な代物と化している。

That system is not only outdated, but moreover, has turned into a harmful and useless thing that only promotes confusion on the ground.

Harsh bureaucratic critique.

8

彼女の沈黙は肯定を意味するのか、それとも拒絶なのか。しかも、その表情からは一切の感情が読み取れなかった。

Did her silence mean affirmation, or rejection? Moreover, absolutely no emotion could be read from her expression.

Building suspense and mystery in prose.

تلازمات شائعة

〜て、しかも〜
〜。しかも、〜も〜
安くてしかも
高くてしかも
美味しくてしかも
悪くてしかも
しかもなお
しかも無料で
しかも簡単に
しかも即座に

يُخلط عادةً مع

しかも vs しかし (shikashi - however)

しかも vs それに (sore ni - besides)

しかも vs そして (soshite - and)

سهل الخلط

しかも vs

しかも vs

しかも vs

しかも vs

しかも vs

أنماط الجُمل

كيفية الاستخدام

note

Do not confuse 'shikamo' with 'shikashi'. 'Shikamo' adds similar info; 'shikashi' adds contrasting info.

أخطاء شائعة
  • Using 'shikamo' to mean 'however' or 'but'.
  • Using 'shikamo' for mundane, expected sequences of events.
  • Forgetting to match polarity (e.g., connecting a positive and a negative trait).
  • Pronouncing 'shikamo' with a heavy English-style stress on the first syllable.
  • Overusing 'shikamo' multiple times in a single short conversation.

نصائح

Polarity Matching

Always ensure the statements before and after 'shikamo' share the same positive or negative tone. Mixing them is a critical error.

The Dramatic Pause

To sound more native, insert a tiny micro-pause right before saying 'shikamo'. This builds suspense for the listener.

Anticipate the 'Mo'

When you hear 'shikamo', listen closely to the rest of the sentence. You will very often hear the particle 'mo' (also) attached to the subject or object.

Elevate Your Essays

In JLPT writing or essays, use 'shikamo' to transition to your strongest supporting argument. It shows a high level of rhetorical control.

Don't Overuse It

If you are just listing normal, expected events (I woke up, and I ate breakfast), use 'soshite'. Save 'shikamo' for when the addition is actually noteworthy.

Conversational Prompt

Try using 'Shikamo?' when a friend is complaining to you. It shows you are engaged and want to hear the rest of the juicy details.

Emotional Weight

Remember that 'shikamo' carries emotion. It can express joy, anger, or shock. Let your facial expression and tone match the emotion.

Shikamo vs Sore ni

If you are just making a grocery list, use 'sore ni'. If you are telling a dramatic story about how bad your day was, use 'shikamo'.

Business Alternative

If you are writing an email to a very important client, consider using 'sono ue' instead of 'shikamo' to sound slightly more refined.

Spotting the Climax

In reading comprehension tests, the sentence following 'shikamo' is often the author's main point or the climax of the paragraph. Pay close attention to it.

احفظها

وسيلة تذكّر

She came over (shikamo) AND WHAT'S MORE, she brought pizza!

أصل الكلمة

Classical Japanese

السياق الثقافي

While not inherently impolite, overusing it in formal business settings can make you sound overly emotional or argumentative. Use 'sono ue' for a more detached, professional tone.

تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية

سياقات واقعية

بدايات محادثة

"最近買ったもので、「安くてしかも良かった」ものはありますか?"

"今までで一番「疲れて、しかも最悪だった」日はいつですか?"

"「美味しくてしかもヘルシー」な食べ物といえば何ですか?"

"「難しくてしかもつまらない」勉強って何だと思いますか?"

"「近くてしかも便利」な場所はどこですか?"

مواضيع للكتابة اليومية

Write about a day where everything went wrong using 'shikamo'.

Describe your favorite restaurant using 'shikamo' to list its good points.

Explain a difficult problem in the world right now, using 'shikamo' to add compounding issues.

Write a review of a movie you hated, using 'shikamo'.

Describe a person you admire, using 'shikamo' to list their talents.

الأسئلة الشائعة

10 أسئلة

No, absolutely not. This is the most common mistake. 'Shikamo' must connect ideas of the same polarity (both good or both bad). For contrasting ideas, use 'shikashi' or 'demo'.

It is highly versatile and can be used in both casual and formal contexts. However, in extremely formal writing or highly polite business speech, 'sono ue' or 'sarani' might be preferred.

It is not strictly grammatically required, but it is extremely common and sounds very natural. The pattern 'shikamo... mo...' is a staple of native Japanese speech.

Yes, it is very common to start a new sentence with 'Shikamo,' to connect it to the previous sentence. For example: 'Kare wa okureta. Shikamo, ayamarana katta.'

'Soshite' simply means 'and' and connects events chronologically or logically without added emphasis. 'Shikamo' means 'moreover' and adds a layer of surprise or compounding weight.

Yes, in casual conversation, you can say 'Shikamo?' with a rising intonation to mean 'And what else?' or 'And then what?', prompting the speaker to continue.

No, it can connect nouns, verbs, adjectives, or entire sentences. It is a highly flexible conjunction.

Yes, it is frequently used in essays, articles, and literature to build arguments or add descriptive depth.

While grammatically possible, it sounds very clunky and unnatural. It is better to use it once to deliver a single, strong point of emphasis.

It is pronounced with a flat (heiban) pitch accent. Do not stress the first syllable heavily. It should flow smoothly into the sentence.

اختبر نفسك 200 أسئلة

writing

Translate: Expensive, and moreover, bad tasting.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

高い、しかもまずい。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: It is raining. Moreover, the wind is strong.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

雨が降っている。しかも風が強い。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: He was late. Moreover, he didn't apologize.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

彼は遅刻した。しかも謝らなかった。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: This book is interesting. Moreover, it is useful.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

この本は面白い。しかもためになる。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: I got lost. Moreover, I dropped my wallet.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

道に迷った。しかも財布を落とした。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: She is beautiful. Moreover, she is smart.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

彼女は美人だ。しかも頭も良い。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: Work is busy. Moreover, the salary is low.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

仕事が忙しい。しかも給料が安い。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: The problem is difficult. Moreover, time is short.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

問題は難しい。しかも時間が短い。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: The room is narrow, and moreover, dark.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

部屋は狭くて、しかも暗い。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: The computer broke. Moreover, the data was erased.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

パソコンが壊れた。しかもデータが消えた。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: This car is old. Moreover, it is dirty.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

この車は古い。しかも汚い。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: The cake is delicious. Moreover, it is cheap.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

ケーキは美味しい。しかも安い。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: He is kind. Moreover, he is funny.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

彼は優しい。しかも面白い。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: It is snowing. Moreover, it is piling up.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

雪が降っている。しかも積もっている。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: The test was difficult. Moreover, the range was wide.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

テストは難しかった。しかも範囲が広かった。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: The road is crowded. Moreover, there was an accident.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

道が混んでいる。しかも事故があった。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: I have a fever. Moreover, I have a cough.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

熱がある。しかも咳も出る。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: He can speak English. Moreover, he can speak French.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

彼は英語が話せる。しかもフランス語も話せる。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: This product is high quality. Moreover, it is low price.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

この製品は高品質だ。しかも低価格だ。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: The night was deep, and moreover, quiet.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

夜は深く、しかも静かだった。

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

What was the conjunction?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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