もっとも
It means 'most' or 'extremely' when you want to say something is the highest degree.
Explanation at your level:
Hello! Let's learn a new word: もっとも (mottomo). It means 'most' or 'very, very'. Imagine you have yummy cookies. If one cookie is the 'most' yummy, you can say it is もっとも yummy! It's like saying 'super best'. You use it when something is the biggest, the best, or the most of something. For example, 'This is the most fun game!' or 'He is the most tall boy.' It helps you say something is number one!
Hi there! Today we're looking at もっとも (mottomo). This word is an adverb that helps us say something is at the highest level. Think of it like 'most' in English. If you want to say something is the 'most beautiful flower', you use もっとも. It's used to describe the extreme or highest degree of something. For example, 'This is the most important task.' or 'She is the most friendly person.' It's a useful word to show the top level!
Let's explore もっとも (mottomo)! This adverb is used to indicate the superlative degree, meaning 'most' or 'to the greatest extent'. It's a more formal way to express the highest level compared to casual intensifiers. For example, instead of just saying 'very important', you can say もっとも important (mottomo jūyō) to emphasize it's the *most* crucial. It's often used in writing or more formal speech. Common collocations include もっとも効果的 (most effective) and もっともらしい (most likely/plausible).
Understanding もっとも (mottomo) involves recognizing its function as a primary adverb for the superlative degree. While 'most' is the direct translation, もっとも often carries a slightly more formal or literary tone than simpler intensifiers. It's crucial for constructing comparisons of the highest order. For instance, in academic contexts, you might see phrases like もっとも一般的な原因 (mottomo ippanteki na gen'in - the most common cause). Be mindful of its register; while usable in speech, it's more prevalent in written Japanese and formal presentations.
The adverb もっとも (mottomo) is a key marker for the superlative degree in Japanese, signifying the utmost extent or highest level. Its usage extends beyond simple intensification to nuanced expression, often appearing in formal discourse, academic writing, and literature. Consider its role in phrases like もっともらしい理由 (mottomo rashii riyū - the most plausible reason), where it implies a reasoned judgment rather than just an opinion. Understanding its subtle formality and its function in constructing precise comparisons is vital for advanced comprehension and sophisticated expression.
At the C2 level, もっとも (mottomo) is appreciated for its historical depth and stylistic nuances. Originating from expressions of fundamental truth or origin, it evolved into the standard superlative marker. Its usage in classical texts and formal modern Japanese demonstrates a sophisticated command of register. Recognizing もっとも in contexts like legal documents or philosophical arguments, where precision is paramount, reveals its enduring significance. Its etymological roots subtly inform its weight, suggesting a degree of inherent truth or fundamental correctness beyond mere quantitative comparison.
واژه در 30 ثانیه
- もっとも is an adverb meaning 'most' or 'extremely'.
- It's used to indicate the highest degree or superlative.
- It often carries a formal or literary tone.
- Commonly used in writing, reports, and formal speech.
Hey there! Let's dive into the awesome word もっとも (mottomo). This little word is super handy when you want to talk about things that are at the very top of the scale, like the 'most' something or 'extremely' something. Think of it as your go-to for emphasizing the highest degree. It’s not just about being a little bit of something; it’s about being the ultimate version of it!
You'll often find もっとも used before adjectives or other adverbs to really amp up their meaning. It’s like adding a spotlight to the word it modifies, making sure everyone understands just how intense or superlative the situation is. So, whether you're talking about the most delicious food or the extremely difficult challenge, もっとも has got your back!
The word もっとも (mottomo) has a fascinating origin that traces back to classical Japanese. It comes from the adjective 元も (moto), meaning 'origin' or 'base', combined with the particle も (mo), which in this context can imply 'even' or 'also'. Over time, this evolved into a form that meant something like 'from the very origin' or 'fundamentally', which then shifted in meaning to express the highest degree or 'most'.
Interestingly, the kanji characters used for もっとも, 最も, literally mean 'most' and 'all'. This visual cue helps reinforce its meaning of being the ultimate or highest point. Historically, it was used in various contexts, from legal pronouncements to everyday descriptions, solidifying its role as a key intensifier in the Japanese language. It's a great example of how words can travel and transform their meanings through centuries of use!
When you want to express the absolute highest degree of something, もっとも (mottomo) is your word! It's an adverb, so it usually sits right before the adjective or adverb it's modifying. For instance, you'd say もっとも 美味しい (mottomo oishii) for 'most delicious' or もっとも 難しい (mottomo muzukashii) for 'most difficult'.
It's quite versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings, though it leans a bit more towards formal or written language. In casual chat, you might hear alternatives, but もっとも adds a touch of elegance and precision. Think about common pairings like もっとも 効果的 (mottomo kōkateki - most effective), もっとも 重要 (mottomo jūyō - most important), or もっとも らしい (mottomo rashii - most likely/plausible). Mastering these collocations will make your Japanese sound much more natural and sophisticated!
While もっとも (mottomo) itself isn't typically part of many set idioms, its core meaning of 'most' or 'highest degree' is fundamental to many expressions. Here are a few ways its meaning shines through:
- もっともらしい (mottomo rashii): This phrase means 'plausible', 'likely', or 'seemingly reasonable'. It suggests something appears to be the most logical or true, even if it's not definitively proven. Example: 彼の説明はもっともらしいが、本当かどうかは分からない。(Kare no setsumei wa mottomo rashii ga, hontō ka dō ka wa wakaranai. - His explanation sounds plausible, but I don't know if it's true.)
- もっともなこと (mottomo na koto): This refers to something that is 'reasonable', 'justifiable', or 'understandable'. It implies that a certain action or feeling is the most appropriate response given the circumstances. Example: 彼の怒りはもっともなことだ。(Kare no ikari wa mottomo na koto da. - His anger is understandable/justifiable.)
- もっともとされている (mottomo to sarete iru): This means 'is considered to be the most' or 'is regarded as the highest'. It indicates a general consensus or belief. Example: それがもっともとされている説です。(Sore ga mottomo to sarete iru setsu desu. - That is the theory considered to be the most valid.)
These expressions highlight how もっとも's sense of 'highest degree' or 'reasonableness' permeates Japanese language use.
Pronouncing もっとも (mottomo) is pretty straightforward! It has three syllables: mo-tto-mo. The 'tto' sound is a geminate consonant, meaning the 't' sound is held slightly longer than a single 't'. Try to make a small pause or emphasis on the double 't'.
Phonetically, in standard Japanese (often called Tokyo dialect), it's pronounced roughly as: UK: /mɒt.tɔ.mɔ/, US: /mɑt.tɔ.mɔ/. You can think of the 'o' sound as being similar to the 'o' in 'lot' or 'hot'.
Grammatically, もっとも functions as an adverb. This means it modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. It doesn't change form for pluralization or gender. It's always used in its base form to indicate the superlative degree. For example, it pairs with adjectives like 大きい (ōkii - big) to form もっとも大きい (mottomo ōkii - biggest).
Fun Fact
The kanji 最も literally combine 'most' and 'all', reinforcing its meaning of being the ultimate.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'mot-toh-moh', with a slight emphasis and pause on the double 't'.
Similar to UK, like 'maht-toh-moh', ensuring the 'tt' sound is distinct.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing 'tto' as a single 'to'.
- Incorrect vowel sounds, especially the final 'o'.
- Stress on the wrong syllable.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Requires understanding of context and register.
Correct usage depends on formality and nuance.
Pronunciation is key; register awareness important.
Easier to understand in context than to distinguish from similar words.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
پیشرفته
Grammar to Know
Superlative Adjectives/Adverbs
Noun + は + もっとも + Adjective/Adverb + です/ます。
Adverb Placement
Adverbs like もっとも typically precede the word they modify.
Na-Adjective Conjugation
もっとも + Na-Adjective + な + Noun (e.g., もっとも重要な問題).
Examples by Level
これは もっとも おいしい ケーキ です。
This is most delicious cake is.
もっとも modifies the adjective おいしい (delicious).
あの 人は もっとも せが たかい です。
That person is most height tall is.
せが たかい means 'tall'.
この えいが は もっとも たのしい です。
This movie is most fun is.
たのしい means 'fun'.
それは もっとも ほしい おもちゃ です。
That is most want toy is.
ほしい means 'wanted' or 'desirable'.
わたし は もっとも はやい です。
I am most fast is.
はやい means 'fast'.
ここ が もっとも あぶない です。
Here is most dangerous is.
あぶない means 'dangerous'.
この ほん は もっとも おもしろい です。
This book is most interesting is.
おもしろい means 'interesting'.
それは もっとも むずかしい です。
That is most difficult is.
むずかしい means 'difficult'.
この レストランは もっとも にんき が あります。
This restaurant most popularity has.
にんきがあります means 'is popular'.
それは もっとも ゆうめい な けんぶつ です。
That is most famous sightseeing spot is.
ゆうめいな means 'famous'.
この じゅぎょう は もっとも たいせつ です。
This lesson most important is.
たいせつな means 'important'.
もっとも しんぱい なのは かね の こと です。
Most worry about is money's matter is.
しんぱいな means 'worrying'.
この ほうほう が もっとも じょうず です。
This method most skillful is.
じょうずな means 'skillful'.
もっとも かんたん な やりかた を おしえて ください。
Most easy way teach please.
かんたんな means 'easy'.
この ニュース は もっとも しんじつ です。
This news most true is.
しんじつな means 'true/factual'.
もっとも さむい きせつ は ふゆ です。
Most cold season is winter is.
さむい means 'cold'.
この 問題は もっとも 解決が 難しい。
This problem most solution difficult.
解決 (kaiketsu) means 'solution'. 難しい (muzukashii) means 'difficult'.
彼は もっとも 信頼できる 人物 です。
He most trustworthy person is.
信頼できる (shinrai dekiru) means 'trustworthy'.
もっとも らしい 言い訳だったが、信じられなかった。
Most plausible excuse was, believe could not.
言い訳 (iiwake) means 'excuse'. 信じられなかった (shinjirarenakatta) means 'could not believe'.
この 地域で もっとも 危険な 場所は どこですか？
This area in most dangerous place is where?
危険な (kiken na) means 'dangerous'.
それは もっとも な 意見だと 思います。
That reasonable opinion think.
意見 (iken) means 'opinion'. 思う (omou) means 'to think'.
この 計画は もっとも 成功する 可能性が高い。
This plan most succeed possibility high.
計画 (keikaku) means 'plan'. 可能性 (kanōsei) means 'possibility'.
もっとも 重要なのは 健康です。
Most important is health is.
重要 (jūyō) means 'important'. 健康 (kenkō) means 'health'.
彼の 説明は もっとも らしい が、確証がない。
His explanation plausible but, proof lacking.
説明 (setsumei) means 'explanation'. 確証 (kakushō) means 'proof'.
この 研究結果は、これまでで もっとも 確かな ものとされている。
This research result, up to now most certain thing considered.
研究結果 (kenkyū kekka) means 'research result'. 確かな (tashika na) means 'certain/reliable'.
経済成長の鈍化は、 もっとも 懸念される 事態だ。
Economic growth's slowdown, most worried-about situation is.
経済成長 (keizai seichō) means 'economic growth'. 懸念される (kenen sareru) means 'to be worried about'.
彼の 発言は、 状況を 考慮すれば もっとも なものだった。
His statement, situation considering if most reasonable thing was.
発言 (hatsugen) means 'statement'. 考慮すれば (kōryo sureba) means 'if considering'.
この小説は、現代文学において もっとも 影響力のある 作品の一つだ。
This novel, modern literature in most influential work one is.
影響力のある (eikyōryoku no aru) means 'influential'. 作品 (sakuhin) means 'work/piece'.
それは もっとも らしい 理論だが、実証が 不十分だ。
That plausible theory but, verification insufficient.
理論 (riron) means 'theory'. 実証 (jisshō) means 'verification'.
最も 重要なのは、チームの 協調性です。
Most important is, team's cooperativeness is.
協調性 (kyōchōsei) means 'cooperativeness'.
その 報告書は、 もっとも 信頼性の高い 情報源から 書かれている。
That report, most reliability high information source from written.
信頼性 (shinraisei) means 'reliability'. 情報源 (jōhōgen) means 'information source'.
この 状況下では、彼の 行動は もっとも なものと 理解された。
This situation under, his actions most reasonable thing understood.
状況下 (jōkyōka) means 'under the circumstances'. 理解された (rikai sareta) means 'was understood'.
その 政治家の 発言は、 聴衆に 対して もっとも らしい ものだったが、実質を 欠いていた。
That politician's statement, audience towards plausible thing was, substance lacked.
実質を欠く (jisshitsu o kaku) means 'to lack substance'.
この 古典文学の 解釈は、 多くの 研究者によって もっとも 正当なものとみなされている。
This classical literature's interpretation, many researchers by most legitimate thing considered.
古典文学 (koten bungaku) means 'classical literature'. 正当な (seitō na) means 'legitimate/justified'.
彼は、 困難な 状況下でも もっとも 合理的な 判断を 下すことで 知られている。
He, difficult situation under also most rational judgment make known.
合理的な (gōriteki na) means 'rational'. 判断を下す (handan o kudasu) means 'to make a judgment'.
その 芸術作品は、 時代を 反映した もっとも 象徴的な 表現だと 評価されている。
That artwork, era reflected most symbolic expression is praised.
象徴的な (shōchōteki na) means 'symbolic'. 評価されている (hyōka sarete iru) means 'is praised/evaluated'.
彼の 弁明は、 一見 もっとも らしい が、細部を 検証すると 矛盾が 生じる。
His explanation, at first glance plausible but, details examining when contradictions arise.
弁明 (benmei) means 'explanation/defense'. 矛盾 (mujun) means 'contradiction'.
この 法律改正は、 社会的 弱者を 保護する 上で もっとも 効果的な 手段と 考えられる。
This legal revision, socially weak protect in most effective means considered.
法的改正 (hōteki kaisei) means 'legal revision'. 手段 (shudan) means 'means/measure'.
その 議論は、 複雑な 問題に対する もっとも 深遠な 洞察を 提供した。
That discussion, complex issue towards most profound insight provided.
深遠な (shin'en na) means 'profound'. 洞察 (dōsatsu) means 'insight'.
彼は、 危機的 状況において もっとも 冷静沈着な 判断を下す 人物として 広く 認識されている。
He, critical situation in most calm and composed judgment make person widely recognized.
冷静沈着な (reiseiteichaku na) means 'calm and composed'. 認識されている (ninshiki sarete iru) means 'is recognized'.
その 古代文書の 解読は、 philological な 観点から もっとも 困難な 作業の一つと 目されている。
That ancient document's deciphering, philological perspective from most difficult task one considered.
解読 (kaidoku) means 'deciphering'. 目されている (me sarete iru) means 'is considered/regarded as'.
彼の 文学批評は、 既存の 枠組みを 超え、 もっとも 独創的な 解釈を 提示している。
His literary criticism, existing framework surpasses, most original interpretation presents.
文学批評 (bungaku hihyō) means 'literary criticism'. 独創的な (dokusōteki na) means 'original/creative'.
この 哲学的 論争において、 彼の 主張は もっとも 根本的な 問題提起を 行ったと 評価される。
This philosophical debate in, his assertion most fundamental question-raising performed considered.
哲学的 (tetsugakuteki) means 'philosophical'. 問題提起 (mondai teiki) means 'raising a question/issue'.
その 建築様式は、 当時の 美意識を もっとも よく 体現した 例として 挙げられる。
That architectural style, the time's aesthetic sense most well embodying example cited.
建築様式 (kenchiku yōshiki) means 'architectural style'. 体現した (taigen shita) means 'embodying/representing'.
彼の 弁論は、 法廷で もっとも 説得力のあるものとして 記憶されている。
His oratory, courtroom in most persuasive thing remembered.
弁論 (benron) means 'oratory/argument'. 説得力のある (settokuryoku no aru) means 'persuasive'.
この 芸術運動は、 後世に もっとも 深い 影響を 与えたものと 考えられている。
This art movement, later generations to most deep influence gave considered.
後世 (kōsei) means 'later generations'. 影響を与える (eikyō o ataeru) means 'to influence'.
その 経済理論は、 複雑な 市場の 動向を 分析する 上で もっとも 精緻な モデルを 提供する。
That economic theory, complex market's trends analyze in most precise model provides.
精緻な (seichi na) means 'precise/elaborate'.
彼の 遺した 言葉は、 人生における もっとも 普遍的な 真理を 探求している。
His left-behind words, life in most universal truths seeking.
普遍的な (fuhentteki na) means 'universal'. 真理 (shinri) means 'truth'.
ترکیبهای رایج
Idioms & Expressions
"もっともらしい (mottomo rashii)"
Plausible, likely, seemingly reasonable.
彼の言い訳はもっともらしいが、本当かどうかは分からない。(Kare no iiwake wa mottomo rashii ga, hontō ka dō ka wa wakaranai.)
neutral"もっともなこと (mottomo na koto)"
Reasonable, justifiable, understandable.
彼の怒りはもっともなことだ。(Kare no ikari wa mottomo na koto da.)
neutral"もっともとされている (mottomo to sarete iru)"
Is considered to be the most, is regarded as the highest.
それがもっともとされている学説です。(Sore ga mottomo to sarete iru gakusetsu desu.)
formal"もっともらしい嘘 (mottomo rashii uso)"
A lie that sounds believable.
彼はもっともらしい嘘をついて、その場を切り抜けた。(Kare wa mottomo rashii uso o tsuite, sono ba o kirinuketa.)
neutral"もっともらしい顔 (mottomo rashii kao)"
A look of seeming innocence or ignorance; a plausible expression.
彼は何も知らないような、もっともらしい顔をしていた。(Kare wa nani mo shiranai yō na, mottomo rashii kao o shite ita.)
neutral"もっともらしい話 (mottomo rashii hanashi)"
A story or account that sounds believable.
その話はもっともらしいが、証拠がない。(Sono hanashi wa mottomo rashii ga, shōko ga nai.)
neutralEasily Confused
Similar sound and root meaning.
もっとも (adverb) means 'most/extremely'. もっともな (adjective phrase) means 'reasonable/justifiable'.
もっとも美しい花 (mottomo utsukushii hana - the most beautiful flower) vs. それはもっともな話だ (Sore wa mottomo na hanashi da - That's a reasonable story).
Both mean 'most' and indicate the superlative.
一番 is generally more common and casual. もっとも is often more formal or literary.
一番速い車 (ichiban hayai kuruma - the fastest car) vs. 最も速い車 (mottomo hayai kuruma - the fastest car, slightly more formal).
Both mean 'extremely' and are formal adverbs.
極めて emphasizes the extreme degree, while もっとも specifically points to the highest degree (superlative).
極めて困難な状況 (kiwamete konnan na jōkyō - an extremely difficult situation) vs. 最も困難な状況 (mottomo konnan na jōkyō - the most difficult situation).
It's the opposite superlative.
最低 means 'least' or 'lowest', the antonym of もっとも (most).
最も良い (mottomo yoi - the best) vs. 最低な気分 (saitei na kibun - the worst feeling).
Sentence Patterns
Noun + は + もっとも + Adjective + です。
この本はもっとも面白いです。(Kono hon wa mottomo omoshiroi desu. - This book is the most interesting.)
Noun + は + もっとも + Adverb + Verb.
彼はもっとも早く到着した。(Kare wa mottomo hayaku tōchaku shita. - He arrived the fastest.)
Noun + は + もっとも + な + Noun + です。
それはもっともな意見です。(Sore wa mottomo na iken desu. - That is a reasonable opinion.)
Noun + は + もっとも + Na-Adjective + な + Noun + です。
これはもっとも重要な問題です。(Kore wa mottomo jūyō na mondai desu. - This is the most important problem.)
Noun + は + もっとも + Adjective + Noun + です。
世界で最も高い山はエベレストです。(Sekai de mottomo takai yama wa Ebesuto desu. - The world's highest mountain is Everest.)
خانواده کلمه
Nouns
Adjectives
مرتبط
How to Use It
7/10
Formality Scale
اشتباهات رایج
While もっとも means 'extremely', its primary function is superlative. For general 'very', use words like とても (totemo) or 非常 に (hijō ni).
The adverb もっとも precedes the word it modifies (e.g., もっとも美しい - most beautiful), while もっともだ stands alone or acts as a predicate (e.g., それはもっともだ - That is reasonable).
もっとも has a slightly formal or literary feel. While not incorrect, it can sound stiff in very casual chat.
Unlike some Japanese adverbs, もっとも's position is quite fixed. Putting it elsewhere can sound unnatural.
Failing to geminate the consonant 't' can change the word's sound and make it harder to understand.
Tips
Motto for the Most!
Remember that 'motto' (like a guiding principle) is often the 'most' important thing to someone. Link 'motto' with 'most'!
Formal vs. Casual
Think of もっとも as your 'fancy' version of 'most'. For everyday chat, 一番 (ichiban) is usually safer and more natural.
Written Word Emphasis
You'll see もっとも frequently in newspapers, books, and official documents where precision and emphasis are key.
Adverb Placement Rule
Always place もっとも directly before the adjective or adverb it's intensifying. It's like a spotlight!
Double T Power
Don't forget the double 't' in 'motto'! It's a small sound change that makes a big difference in clarity.
Don't Say 'Very' When You Mean 'Most'
Resist the urge to use もっとも for general intensity. Stick to its superlative meaning!
Origin Story
It evolved from 'origin/base' to mean 'fundamentally', and then to the 'highest degree' – a fascinating semantic journey!
Compare and Contrast
Actively compare sentences using もっとも, 一番, and とても to internalize their different nuances and registers.
Collocation Power
Learn common pairings like もっともらしい (plausible) and もっともな (reasonable) – they function almost like set phrases.
Visualise the Peak
Imagine climbing a mountain. もっとも represents reaching the very peak, the highest point.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'motto' (like a slogan) that is the 'most' important thing you've ever heard.
Visual Association
Picture a trophy with 'MOST' engraved on it, and the word もっとも floating above it.
Word Web
چالش
Try describing the 'most' something in your room using もっとも.
ریشه کلمه
Japanese
Original meaning: From 'moto' (origin, base) + 'mo' (particle implying emphasis/addition), evolving to mean 'fundamentally' or 'from the very beginning', then 'most'.
بافت فرهنگی
No specific cultural sensitivities associated with this word.
In English, 'most' is used very frequently in everyday speech. While もっとも is common in Japanese, its usage can sometimes feel more formal or literary compared to everyday English 'most'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Describing rankings or preferences
- もっとも好きな色 (mottomo sukina iro - favorite color)
- もっとも人気のある場所 (mottomo ninki no aru basho - most popular place)
- もっとも美味しい料理 (mottomo oishii ryōri - most delicious dish)
Formal presentations or reports
- もっとも重要な点 (mottomo jūyō na ten - most important point)
- もっとも効果的な方法 (mottomo kōkateki na hōhō - most effective method)
- もっとも確かな証拠 (mottomo tashika na shōko - most reliable evidence)
Expressing logical conclusions
- もっともな理由 (mottomo na riyū - reasonable reason)
- もっともらしい説明 (mottomo rashii setsumei - plausible explanation)
- もっともなことだ (mottomo na koto da - it's understandable/reasonable)
Academic or scientific writing
- もっとも一般的なケース (mottomo ippanteki na kēsu - most common case)
- もっとも初期の段階 (mottomo shoki no dankai - the earliest stage)
- もっとも高い精度 (mottomo takai seido - highest precision)
Conversation Starters
"What's the most beautiful place you've ever visited?"
"What do you think is the most important skill to have today?"
"What's the most delicious food you've tried recently?"
"What's the most challenging thing you've learned?"
"What do you think is the most common mistake people make when learning Japanese?"
Journal Prompts
Describe the most memorable event of your life using もっとも.
Write about something you find most important and explain why.
Imagine you have to give the most plausible excuse for being late. What would it be?
Reflect on a time when you thought something was reasonable (もっともなこと). What was the situation?
سوالات متداول
8 سوالBoth mean 'most', but 一番 is generally more common and casual in everyday speech. もっとも often sounds more formal, literary, or emphatic, especially in writing.
No, もっとも is an adverb that modifies adjectives and other adverbs. It does not directly modify verbs.
While the kanji 最も is very common and recommended for clarity, もっとも can also be written in hiragana, especially in less formal contexts or for stylistic reasons.
Pronounce it as 'mo-tto-mo'. Pay attention to the double 't' sound, which is slightly longer or more emphasized than a single 't'.
Use もっともらしい when something seems plausible, likely, or reasonable on the surface, but might not be entirely true or proven.
No. もっとも is an adverb meaning 'most'. もっともな is an adjective phrase meaning 'reasonable' or 'justifiable'.
While it implies a high degree, its core meaning is superlative ('most'). For general 'very', words like とても (totemo) or 非常 に (hijō ni) are more appropriate.
Yes, learners sometimes misuse it for general 'very', confuse it with もっともな, or use it too casually. Also, incorrect pronunciation of the double 't' is common.
خودت رو بسنج
これは ___ おいしい りんご です。
もっとも means 'most' and is used here to indicate the highest degree of deliciousness.
What does もっとも mean?
もっとも is used to indicate the superlative degree, meaning 'most' or 'extremely'.
The word もっとも is primarily used in very casual, everyday conversations.
While usable, もっとも often has a slightly more formal or literary tone than casual alternatives like 一番 (ichiban).
Word
معنی
These examples show もっとも modifying different adjectives to form superlatives.
The correct sentence is 'これは最も重要なことです' (Kore wa mottomo jūyō na koto desu), meaning 'This is the most important thing.'
彼の説明は ___ らしい が、本当ではない。
The phrase 'もっともらしい' means 'plausible' or 'likely'.
Which of the following is the MOST appropriate synonym for もっとも in formal writing?
極めて (kiwamete) means 'extremely' and shares a similar formal register and meaning of high degree with もっとも.
The word もっとも can only be used with adjectives.
もっとも can also modify adverbs, for example, もっとも早く (mottomo hayaku - fastest).
Word
معنی
These are common phrases and expressions involving the root meaning of もっとも.
この論文は、その分野における ___ 独創的な 研究の一つと 評価されている。
The sentence requires a word meaning 'most' to indicate the highest degree of originality in research.
امتیاز: /10
Summary
Use もっとも when you want to emphasize the absolute highest degree of something, especially in more formal contexts.
- もっとも is an adverb meaning 'most' or 'extremely'.
- It's used to indicate the highest degree or superlative.
- It often carries a formal or literary tone.
- Commonly used in writing, reports, and formal speech.
Motto for the Most!
Remember that 'motto' (like a guiding principle) is often the 'most' important thing to someone. Link 'motto' with 'most'!
Formal vs. Casual
Think of もっとも as your 'fancy' version of 'most'. For everyday chat, 一番 (ichiban) is usually safer and more natural.
Written Word Emphasis
You'll see もっとも frequently in newspapers, books, and official documents where precision and emphasis are key.
Adverb Placement Rule
Always place もっとも directly before the adjective or adverb it's intensifying. It's like a spotlight!
مثال
これはもっとも重要な点です。
Related Content
این کلمه در زبانهای دیگر
قواعد مرتبط
عبارات مرتبط
واژههای بیشتر general
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
～について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
～ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.
ごろ
A2About, approximately (time).
うえ
A2At a higher position than.
絶対
B1Absolutely; definitely; never.
絶対に
B1Absolutely; definitely.
