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～に限らず

B2 phrase #3,500 most common 9 min read

～に限らず

ni kagurazu Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips ～に限らず in 30 Seconds

Explanation ～に限らず in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn how to connect simple ideas. While '～に限らず' (ni kagirazu) is a bit advanced for beginners, you can think of it as a fancy way of saying 'and' or 'also' for groups of things. Imagine you like apples. You want to say you like all fruit, not just apples. In simple Japanese, you might say 'Apples and other fruits.' But as you get better, you can say 'Not limited to apples (Ringo ni kagirazu), I like all fruit.' Even though you might not use this in your own speaking yet, you might see it on signs or in simple news videos. It helps you understand that something is for everyone or for all times. For example, 'Not just Monday, but every day' is a common way this structure is used. Just remember that it usually follows a noun (a person, place, or thing) and tells you that the topic is bigger than just that one noun. It's like opening a box and showing that there's more inside than you first thought.

At the A2 level, you are beginning to use more specific particles and connecting phrases. '～に限らず' (ni kagirazu) is a useful tool for making your sentences sound more professional. You already know 'mo' (も) for 'also' and 'dake' (だけ) for 'only.' This phrase is like the opposite of 'dake.' Instead of saying 'only this,' you are saying 'not only this.' It is most often used with nouns. A great way to practice is by using it with time and people. For instance, 'Not just students (gakusei ni kagirazu), but teachers too.' This allows you to talk about groups of people more effectively. You will notice that the second part of the sentence often has 'mo' to complete the 'also' meaning. When you see this phrase, try to identify the 'small group' (the noun before ni kagirazu) and the 'large group' (what comes after). This will help you understand the scale of what the speaker is talking about. It's a step up from basic 'A and B' sentences and makes you sound much more fluent.

As a B1 learner, you are moving into intermediate territory where register (how formal or casual you sound) becomes very important. '～に限らず' (ni kagirazu) is a key phrase for formal situations. While you might use '～だけでなく' (dake de naku) when talking to friends, you should start using '～に限らず' in presentations, formal emails, or when writing essays. The grammar is simple: Noun + に限らず. However, the logic is what matters. It is used to show a logical expansion from a specific instance to a general rule or a wider demographic. For example, if you're discussing a social trend, you might say it's not limited to the younger generation (wakamonoseitai ni kagirazu) but is seen across all ages. This gives your arguments more weight and shows you can think categorically. You should also start noticing it in news broadcasts and newspapers. It often appears in the context of social issues, weather, and business trends. Pay attention to how it's used to define the scope of a statement, as this is a common feature of intermediate-level Japanese comprehension.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use '～に限らず' (ni kagirazu) accurately and distinguish it from similar expressions like '～のみならず' (nomi nara zu) or '～はもちろん' (wa mochiron). At this stage, you are expected to handle more abstract concepts. You will use this phrase to discuss complex topics such as 'Not limited to economic factors, but also environmental concerns...' This expression is particularly useful for the JLPT N2 exam, where it frequently appears in reading and grammar sections. One nuance to master is the 'logical inclusion' aspect. The noun before 'ni kagirazu' is usually a representative example of the broader category that follows. If the two things you are comparing are completely unrelated, 'ni kagirazu' might sound strange. You should also be comfortable with the formal tone it provides. In B2 level writing, using 'ni kagirazu' instead of 'dake de naku' demonstrates a sophisticated command of formal Japanese. Practice using it to broaden the scope of your arguments in debates or formal reports, ensuring that the following clause often utilizes 'mo' or 'zenpan' to emphasize the wide reach of your statement.

For C1 learners, '～に限らず' (ni kagirazu) is a standard part of your academic and professional repertoire. You should focus on the subtle pragmatic differences between this and other 'scope-expanding' structures. For example, 'ni kagirazu' is often more objective than 'wa mochiron,' which carries a subjective presupposition about what is obvious. In high-level discourse, you might use 'ni kagirazu' to challenge a narrow viewpoint, effectively saying 'the scope is not as limited as you might think.' You will find this phrase in legal texts, high-level editorials, and academic journals. It is often used to define the applicability of a law or a scientific principle. At this level, you should also be aware of its classical roots (the negative 'zu' form) and how it contributes to the formal 'kaki-kotoba' (written language) feel. When reading complex texts, use 'ni kagirazu' as a marker for the scope of the author's thesis. If an author says a phenomenon is 'not limited to' a certain era, they are preparing to explain its historical persistence. Mastery at C1 involves not just knowing the meaning, but using the phrase to structure your logic in a way that feels natural to native speakers in a high-level professional or academic setting.

At the C2 level, you have a native-like grasp of '～に限らず' (ni kagirazu) and can use it with precision in the most formal contexts. You understand that this phrase is part of a spectrum of expressions that manage the 'scope of discourse.' You can effortlessly choose between 'ni kagirazu,' 'nomi nara zu,' and 'to owazu' based on the specific requirements of the text's register and the logical relationship between the elements. In C2 level production, such as a keynote speech or a published article, you use 'ni kagirazu' to create a sense of comprehensive analysis. You might use it in combination with other advanced structures to create complex, multi-layered sentences that define the boundaries of a concept. You also recognize the stylistic choice an author makes when they use 'ni kagirazu'—it often signals a move from an inductive specific observation to a deductive general principle. Your understanding extends to the rhythmic and prosodic features of the phrase in formal oratory, where it can be used to build rhetorical momentum. At this level, the phrase is no longer a 'grammar point' to be remembered, but a versatile tool for precise, sophisticated communication that reflects a deep understanding of Japanese logical structures and social etiquette.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

～に限らず in 30 Seconds

Means 'not limited to' or 'not only'.
Used primarily with nouns in formal contexts.
Broadens the scope from a specific example to a wider category.
Often followed by the particle 'mo' (も) for emphasis.

The Japanese phrase ～に限らず (ni kagirazu) is a sophisticated functional expression used to indicate that a particular situation, quality, or action is not restricted to a specific group, time, or place, but rather extends to a much broader scope. In English, it is most frequently translated as 'not limited to,' 'not only,' or 'not just.' This expression is rooted in the verb kagiru (限る), which means 'to limit' or 'to restrict.' By adding the classical negative suffix -zu (ず), the meaning becomes 'without limiting.' When you use this phrase, you are essentially saying, 'Do not stop your thinking at this one example; the reality encompasses much more.'

Core Concept: Broadening the scope from a specific noun to a general category or a wider range of subjects.

This phrase is classified as a formal or semi-formal expression. While you might hear it in polite daily conversation, it truly shines in news reports, academic writing, business presentations, and public speeches. It carries a sense of objectivity and logical expansion. For example, if a company says their product is popular 'among young people,' they use ni kagirazu to clarify that it is actually popular among all age groups, thereby elevating the statement from a simple observation to a comprehensive claim.

最近は女性に限らず、男性も化粧品を使うようになった。
(Lately, not limited to women, men have also started using cosmetics.)

In terms of social nuance, using ni kagirazu shows that the speaker is looking at the bigger picture. It avoids exclusion and promotes a sense of universality. If you are describing a trend in Japan, using this phrase helps you avoid sounding like you are over-generalizing based on a tiny sample. It signals to the listener that you have considered various demographics or scenarios and found the condition to be true across the board.

Contextual Usage: Ideal for discussing societal changes, global phenomena, or multi-functional tools that serve more than one purpose.

この問題は日本に限らず、世界中で起きている。
(This problem is not limited to Japan; it is happening all over the world.)

The grammatical structure of ～に限らず is relatively straightforward but requires attention to the noun it follows. It is primarily used with Nouns (N). Unlike some other grammar points that require a connecting particle or a specific verb form, ni kagirazu attaches directly to the noun. The basic formula is: [Noun] + に限らず. It is important to remember that the noun before ni kagirazu is usually a specific example that belongs to a larger category mentioned later in the sentence.

Grammar Rule: Noun + に限らず + [Broader Category/Other Example] + も/など...

One of the most common patterns is the inclusion of the particle mo (も) in the following clause. This reinforces the 'also' aspect of the meaning. For example, 'A ni kagirazu, B mo...' translates to 'Not just A, but B too...' This structure creates a logical bridge. If you were to omit the mo, the sentence might feel incomplete or less emphatic. Another common ending involves words like subete (すべて - all) or zentaiteki ni (全体的に - overall) to show that the entire scope is included.

平日にに限らず、週末もこの道は混んでいる。
(Not limited to weekdays, this road is crowded on weekends too.)

When using ni kagirazu in professional writing, it is often paired with abstract nouns. Words like 'age' (年齢), 'gender' (性別), 'nationality' (国籍), and 'occupation' (職業) are frequently seen. For instance, 'Regardless of age' is often phrased as nenrei ni kagirazu. This usage is slightly more formal than using to owazu (を問わず), which means 'regardless of,' though they are often interchangeable in broader contexts. The key difference is that ni kagirazu focuses on the expansion of the scope, while to owazu focuses on the lack of restriction.

このイベントは、町民にに限らず、誰でも参加できます。
(Not limited to town residents, anyone can participate in this event.)

Advanced Pattern: Noun + に限らず + [Broader Concept] + 全般 (zenpan - in general) / 全体 (zentai - entire).

Understanding where ～に限らず appears will help you gauge its level of formality. It is a staple of Japanese news broadcasts. When a reporter discusses a weather phenomenon, they might say that the heatwave is not limited to Tokyo but is affecting the whole country. In this context, the phrase provides a professional and objective tone. It is also very common in documentaries, where the narrator explains that a certain biological trait is not limited to one species but is found across an entire genus.

Common Domain: Media: News headlines, weather reports, and educational documentaries often use this to broaden the scope of their reports.

In the business world, you will encounter ni kagirazu during meetings and in formal documentation. A manager might state that 'not limited to the sales department, the whole company must work together.' In marketing, it is used to describe products that appeal to a wide audience. For example, a skincare product might be marketed as being 'not limited to people with dry skin, but suitable for all skin types.' This usage helps companies project an inclusive and versatile image of their services or products.

営業部にに限らず、全社員がこの研修を受けるべきだ。
(Not limited to the sales department, all employees should take this training.)

You will also find this phrase in literature and essays. Authors use it to draw parallels between different concepts. For instance, an essayist might argue that the feeling of loneliness is not limited to those who live alone, but can be felt even in a crowd. In this literary sense, ni kagirazu acts as a rhetorical tool to challenge the reader's assumptions. It moves the discourse from the specific to the universal, which is a hallmark of sophisticated Japanese writing style.

都会にに限らず、田舎でもネット環境は重要だ。
(Not limited to the city, internet environment is important in the countryside too.)

Common Domain: Education: Textbooks and lectures use it to categorize information and show relationships between specific data and general theories.

One of the most frequent errors learners make is confusing ～に限らず with ～だけでなく (dake de naku). While their meanings overlap significantly, their registers and nuances differ. Dake de naku is much more versatile and can be used in casual conversation, whereas ni kagirazu sounds overly stiff if you use it while grabbing a drink with friends. If you say 'Not only this beer, but that one is good too' using ni kagirazu, it sounds like you are delivering a formal report on the beer's quality rather than just chatting.

Mistake 1: Register Mismatch: Using 'ni kagirazu' in very casual situations where 'dake de naku' or 'mo' would be more natural.

Another common mistake involves the grammatical connection. Learners sometimes try to attach ni kagirazu to verbs or adjectives directly. For example, trying to say 'Not only eating, but also...' as 'Taberu ni kagirazu' is incorrect. You must nominalize the verb: 'Taberu koto ni kagirazu.' However, even this is relatively rare; it is far more common to use a noun. If you find yourself wanting to use a verb, dake de naku is almost always the better choice because it connects easily to all parts of speech.

Incorrect: 走るに限らず、泳ぐのも好きだ。
Correct: 走るだけでなく、泳ぐのも好きだ。
(Note: Use 'dake de naku' for verbs.)

A third mistake is using ni kagirazu when you actually mean 'unless' or 'only if.' Because it contains the word 'limit' (kagiru), some learners confuse it with conditional structures like ni kagiri (limited only to). Remember: ni kagiri narrows the focus to one thing, while ni kagirazu explodes the focus to include many things. Confusing these two will result in the exact opposite of your intended meaning, which can be disastrous in business contracts or instructions.

Mistake 2: Category Mismatch: Using it when the two items being compared don't belong to a logical broader group (e.g., 'Not just pens, but also the moon').

Watch Out: 今日に限り、半額です。
(Only today, it's half price. - This is the opposite of 'ni kagirazu'!)

When learning ～に限らず, it is essential to compare it with its synonyms to understand the fine distinctions in Japanese grammar. The most common alternative is ～だけでなく (dake de naku). As mentioned before, dake de naku is the 'all-purpose' version. It can be used with nouns, verbs, and adjectives. It is the standard way to say 'not only... but also' in almost any situation. If you are unsure which to use, dake de naku is the safer, more flexible choice.

Comparison: ～に限らず vs ～だけでなく: ～に限らず: Formal, noun-focused, implies logical expansion of a category.
～だけでなく: Versatile, works with all parts of speech, common in daily life.

Another similar expression is ～のみならず (nomi nara zu). This is even more formal than ni kagirazu. You will see nomi nara zu in very stiff written Japanese, legal documents, or highly academic papers. It functions similarly to 'not only,' but it carries a heavy, literary weight. While ni kagirazu is common in news and business, nomi nara zu is the king of the written word. If ni kagirazu is a suit and tie, nomi nara zu is a tuxedo.

彼は、国内のみならず、海外でも高く評価されている。
(He is highly evaluated not only domestically but also abroad. - Very formal.)

Lastly, consider ～はもちろん (wa mochiron). This phrase means 'A is a given/obvious, but B is also true.' While ni kagirazu simply expands the scope, wa mochiron adds the nuance that the first item is the most obvious or primary example. For instance, 'He speaks English, of course, but he also speaks Japanese.' This adds a layer of expectation that ni kagirazu lacks. Ni kagirazu is more neutral and objective in its presentation of the facts.

Quick Comparison Table

に限らず: Objective, formal, logical expansion.
だけでなく: Everyday use, flexible grammar.
のみならず: Extremely formal, written style.
はもちろん: Emphasizes that the first part is obvious.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The 'zu' ending is a remnant of Classical Japanese. While modern Japanese uses 'nai' for negation, 'zu' survives in many formal grammatical patterns like 'ni kagirazu', 'ni towazu', and 'ni mo kakawarazu'. It gives the phrase a sophisticated, traditional feel.

Pronunciation Guide

UK ni kaɡiɾazɯ

US ni kɑɡiɾɑzɯ

Japanese is a pitch-accent language. In 'kagirazu', the pitch is relatively flat, often starting low on 'ni' and rising slightly on 'ka', then staying steady.

Rhymes With

Shirarazu (without knowing) Tarazu (insufficient) Towazu (regardless of) Yamazu (without stopping) Awazu (without meeting) Okurazu (without sending) Motazu (without having) Veru-zu (not a word, but rhymes with the 'zu' ending)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'zu' as 'zoo' with a long vowel.
Pronouncing the Japanese 'r' as an English 'r' (with curled tongue).
Adding a pause between 'ni' and 'kagirazu'. It should flow as one phrase.
Mispronouncing 'gi' as 'ji'. It must be a hard 'g'.
Over-stressing the final 'zu' syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in text as it often follows a noun and is written in hiragana.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of when to use formal versus casual register.

Speaking 4/5

Can feel stiff if used in the wrong context; requires practice to flow naturally.

Listening 3/5

Clearly audible in formal speeches and news.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

限る (kagiru) だけ (dake) も (mo) 範囲 (han'i) 制限 (seigen)

Learn Next

～のみならず (nomi nara zu) ～ばかりか (bakari ka) ～はおろか (wa oroka) ～はもちろん (wa mochiron) ～にとどまらず (ni todomarazu)

Advanced

～を問わず (wo towazu) ～にかかわらず (ni kakawarazu) ～もさることながら (mo sarukoto nagara)

Grammar to Know

Noun + に限らず

平日に限らず、週末も営業しています。

～だけでなく (Less formal version)

安いだけでなく、おいしいです。

～のみならず (More formal version)

彼は歌のみならず、ダンスも上手だ。

～はもちろん (Obviousness nuance)

野菜はもちろん、肉も食べてください。

～にとどまらず (Expansion focus)

彼の人気は日本にとどまらず、世界に広がった。

Examples by Level

このお菓子は、子供に限らず、大人も好きです。

Not limited to children, adults like these sweets too.

Noun + に限らず

月曜日に限らず、毎日忙しいです。

Not limited to Monday, I am busy every day.

Time noun + に限らず

日本人に限らず、外国人もこのお寺に来ます。

Not limited to Japanese people, foreigners also come to this temple.

Noun (Group of people) + に限らず

冬に限らず、この店は一年中アイスを売っています。

Not limited to winter, this shop sells ice cream all year round.

Season noun + に限らず

東京に限らず、大阪も人が多いです。

Not limited to Tokyo, Osaka also has many people.

Location noun + に限らず

野菜に限らず、果物も食べてください。

Not limited to vegetables, please eat fruit too.

Noun (Food category) + に限らず

犬に限らず、猫も人気があります。

Not limited to dogs, cats are also popular.

Noun (Animal) + に限らず

朝に限らず、夜もコーヒーを飲みます。

Not limited to the morning, I drink coffee at night too.

Time of day + に限らず

学生に限らず、社会人もこの図書館を使えます。

Not limited to students, working people can also use this library.

Social status noun + に限らず

平日に限らず、週末も仕事があります。

Not limited to weekdays, I have work on weekends too.

Noun + に限らず + も

漢字に限らず、文法も難しいです。

Not limited to kanji, grammar is also difficult.

Subject noun + に限らず

肉に限らず、魚もよく食べます。

Not limited to meat, I often eat fish too.

Food noun + に限らず

一人に限らず、みんなで協力しましょう。

Not limited to one person, let's all cooperate.

Number/Amount noun + に限らず

映画に限らず、ドラマもよく見ます。

Not limited to movies, I watch dramas often too.

Media noun + に限らず

夏に限らず、最近は秋も暑いです。

Not limited to summer, lately autumn is hot too.

Season noun + に限らず

料理に限らず、掃除も得意です。

Not limited to cooking, I am good at cleaning too.

Skill noun + に限らず

最近は女性に限らず、男性も美容に興味を持っている。

Lately, not limited to women, men are also interested in beauty.

Uses に限らず to show a shift in social trends.

この映画は、日本に限らず、アジア全体でヒットした。

This movie was a hit not only in Japan but across all of Asia.

Location noun + に限らず + [Broader Category] + で

経験者に限らず、未経験者も大歓迎です。

Not limited to experienced people, beginners are also very welcome.

Commonly used in job advertisements.

彼はスポーツに限らず、勉強もよくできる。

He is good at not only sports but also studying.

Contrasting two different fields of achievement.

このアプリは、スマホに限らず、タブレットでも使えます。

This app can be used not only on smartphones but also on tablets.

Noun (Device) + に限らず

経済的な理由に限らず、様々な問題が重なっている。

Not limited to economic reasons, various problems are piling up.

Abstract noun + に限らず

子供に限らず、大人もマナーを守るべきだ。

Not limited to children, adults should also follow manners.

Moral/Ethical statement using に限らず.

この建物は、地震に限らず、火災にも強い設計だ。

This building's design is resistant not only to earthquakes but also to fire.

Noun (Disaster) + に限らず

環境問題は、一国に限らず、地球全体で取り組むべき課題だ。

Environmental issues are a challenge that should be tackled by the whole Earth, not limited to one country.

Formal academic/social issue context.

少子高齢化は、日本に限らず、多くの先進国が直面している問題だ。

The declining birthrate and aging population is a problem faced by many developed countries, not just Japan.

Noun + に限らず + [General Category] + が...

彼の活動は、音楽に限らず、多方面にわたっている。

His activities are not limited to music but span many different fields.

Phrase '多方面にわたる' (spanning many fields) often follows に限らず.

この制度は、公務員に限らず、民間企業の社員も対象となる。

This system applies not only to civil servants but also to employees of private companies.

Noun (Occupation) + に限らず

伝統文化の継承は、地方に限らず、都市部でも重要な課題である。

The inheritance of traditional culture is an important issue not only in rural areas but also in urban areas.

Formal writing style using 'である'.

言葉の問題に限らず、文化の違いを理解することが大切だ。

It is important to understand cultural differences, not just language problems.

Expanding the scope from 'language' to 'culture'.

この技術は、医療分野に限らず、製造業などでも応用されている。

This technology is applied not only in the medical field but also in manufacturing and other industries.

Noun (Field/Industry) + に限らず

大雨の被害は、沿岸部に限らず、内陸部でも発生した。

Damage from the heavy rain occurred not only in coastal areas but also in inland areas.

Objective reporting of facts.

この現象は、物理学に限らず、生物学的な視点からも説明が可能だ。

This phenomenon can be explained not only through physics but also from a biological perspective.

Academic context using '視点からも説明が可能だ'.

SNSの普及は、個人のコミュニケーションに限らず、政治の在り方にも大きな影響を与えた。

The spread of SNS has had a major impact not only on individual communication but also on the way politics functions.

Complex societal analysis.

現代社会における格差の問題は、所得に限らず、教育や情報の面でも顕著になっている。

The problem of disparity in modern society is becoming prominent not only in income but also in terms of education and information.

Enumerating multiple areas of impact.

著作権の保護は、出版物に限らず、デジタルコンテンツ全般において強化されるべきだ。

Legal/Policy recommendation.

ワークライフバランスの向上は、育児中の社員に限らず、全従業員の幸福に直結する。

Improving work-life balance directly links to the happiness of all employees, not just those raising children.

Business strategy and organizational psychology context.

この研究成果は、理論的な意義に限らず、実用化の可能性も極めて高い。

The results of this research are highly likely to have practical applications, not just theoretical significance.

Scientific reporting.

差別は、人種や国籍に限らず、あらゆる形を否定しなければならない。

Discrimination must be rejected in all its forms, not limited to race or nationality.

Strong ethical/philosophical stance.

グローバル化の波は、経済に限らず、人々の価値観やライフスタイルにも変容を迫っている。

The wave of globalization is forcing changes not only in the economy but also in people's values and lifestyles.

Sociological commentary.

当該法案の適用範囲は、営利法人に限らず、非営利団体や個人事業主も包含するものである。

The scope of application for the bill in question encompasses non-profit organizations and sole proprietors, not being limited to for-profit corporations.

Highly formal legal/bureaucratic language.

言語の変遷は、語彙の増減に限らず、音韻体系や統語構造の深層にまで及ぶ。

Linguistic transition is not limited to the increase or decrease of vocabulary but extends to the depths of phonological systems and syntactic structures.

Linguistic academic discourse.

美意識の形成は、視覚的な刺激に限らず、聴覚や触覚といった五感の相互作用によるものである。

The formation of aesthetic sense is due to the interaction of the five senses, such as hearing and touch, and is not limited to visual stimuli.

Philosophical/Psychological treatise.

企業の社会的責任（CSR）は、利益還元に限らず、持続可能な社会の構築に向けた能動的な参画が求められている。

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) requires active participation toward building a sustainable society, not merely being limited to the return of profits.

Advanced corporate governance terminology.

この歴史的事件の影響は、当時の政治情勢に限らず、後世の文化形成にまで多大な足跡を残した。

The influence of this historical event left a significant footprint on the cultural formation of later generations, not limited to the political situation of the time.

Historiographical analysis.

情報の真偽を確かめる態度は、ネット上の言説に限らず、あらゆるメディアリテラシーの根幹をなす。

The attitude of verifying the truth or falsehood of information forms the core of all media literacy, not limited to discourse on the internet.

Media criticism and philosophy.

精神的な健康の維持は、個人の努力に限らず、社会的な支援体制の整備が不可欠である。

The maintenance of mental health is not limited to individual effort; the development of a social support system is indispensable.

Public health policy discourse.

芸術の価値は、作者の意図に限らず、鑑賞者との対話を通じて動的に生成されるものである。

The value of art is dynamically generated through dialogue with the viewer, not limited to the author's intent.

Aesthetic theory.

Common Collocations

老若男女に限らず

昼夜に限らず

国内外に限らず

年齢に限らず

職業に限らず

場所に限らず

季節に限らず

ジャンルに限らず

公私に限らず

経験の有無に限らず

Common Phrases

～に限らず、～も

— The standard structure meaning 'not only A, but B also'. It is the most frequent way to use this grammar point.

日本に限らず、世界中で人気だ。

～に限らず、すべて

— Used to show that a condition applies to everything in a category, not just the example.

このルールは、新入社員に限らず、すべての社員に適用される。

～に限らず、一般的に

— Used to move from a specific example to a general trend.

この現象は、若者に限らず、一般的に見られる。

～に限らず、誰でも

— A very common phrase used to indicate inclusivity for all people.

経験者に限らず、誰でも応募できます。

～に限らず、どこでも

— Used to indicate that a situation is universal regardless of location.

都市部に限らず、どこでもゴミの問題はある。

～に限らず、いつでも

— Used to indicate that something is true regardless of the time or season.

平日に限らず、いつでも受け付けています。

～に限らず、多方面で

— Used to say something is active or useful in many different fields.

彼はビジネスに限らず、多方面で活躍している。

～に限らず、全体として

— Used to describe a broader, holistic view of a situation.

一部の地域に限らず、国全体として対策が必要だ。

～に限らず、あらゆる

— Emphasizes that 'every single' type or kind is included.

この本は、学生に限らず、あらゆる読者におすすめだ。

～に限らず、～など

— Used when giving a few examples of the broader scope.

肉に限らず、野菜や魚などもバランスよく食べよう。

Often Confused With

～に限らず vs ～に限り (ni kagiri)

This means 'limited only to'. It is the exact opposite of 'ni kagirazu'.

～に限らず vs ～に限って (ni kagitte)

Often used to mean 'only in this specific (unlucky) case' or 'of all people (he wouldn't do that)'.

～に限らず vs ～に限る (ni kagiru)

When used at the end of a sentence, it means 'is the best' or 'is the only way'. e.g., 'Beer is the best in summer'.

Idioms & Expressions

"公私に限らず"

— Whether in public or private life; in both professional and personal spheres.

公私に限らず、彼は常に誠実だ。

Formal

"老若男女に限らず"

— Regardless of age or gender; everyone.

老若男女に限らず、この歌は愛されている。

Neutral

"国内外に限らず"

— Both inside and outside the country; globally.

国内外に限らず、彼の作品は評価されている。

Formal

"昼夜に限らず"

— Regardless of day or night; around the clock.

昼夜に限らず、工事の音が聞こえる。

Neutral

"古今東西に限らず"

— Across all times and places; throughout history and throughout the world.

古今東西に限らず、親子の愛は変わらない。

Literary

"ジャンルに限らず"

— Regardless of the genre or category.

ジャンルに限らず、良いものは良い。

Neutral

"職業の貴賤に限らず"

— Regardless of the social standing or type of one's job.

職業の貴賤に限らず、一生懸命働く姿は美しい。

Formal/Old-fashioned

"学歴に限らず"

— Regardless of educational background.

学歴に限らず、実力のある人を採用する。

Business

"宗派に限らず"

— Regardless of religious sect or denomination.

宗派に限らず、多くの人が参拝に訪れる。

Formal

"自他に限らず"

— Regardless of whether it is oneself or others.

自他に限らず、嘘をつくのは良くない。

Formal

Easily Confused

～に限らず vs だけでなく (dake de naku)

Both mean 'not only'.

Dake de naku is casual/neutral and works with verbs/adjectives. Ni kagirazu is formal and works mostly with nouns.

おいしいだけでなく、体にいい。 (Correct) / おいしいに限らず、体にいい。 (Incorrect)

～に限らず vs のみならず (nomi nara zu)

Both are formal versions of 'not only'.

Nomi nara zu is even more formal and primarily used in written texts. Ni kagirazu is common in spoken news/business.

彼は学問のみならず、芸術にも造詣が深い。

～に限らず vs はもちろん (wa mochiron)

Both include multiple items.

Wa mochiron implies the first item is a 'given' or 'obvious'. Ni kagirazu is more objective.

彼は英語はもちろん、フランス語も話せる。

～に限らず vs を問わず (wo towazu)

Both suggest a wide scope.

Wo towazu means 'regardless of' (ignoring the difference). Ni kagirazu means 'not limited to' (expanding the scope).

性別を問わず募集しています。 (Regardless of gender)

～に限らず vs にかかわらず (ni kakawarazu)

Both mean something applies broadly.

Ni kakawarazu means 'regardless of the situation/influence'. Ni kagirazu is more about the range of items.

天候にかかわらず、決行します。 (Regardless of weather)

Sentence Patterns

Aに限らずBも...

夏に限らず冬もアイスを食べます。

Aに限らず、[Group]全体...

この映画は子供に限らず、大人全体に人気だ。

Aに限らず、BといったC...

東京に限らず、大阪や名古屋といった大都市でも...

Aに限らず、誰でも/いつでも...

平日に限らず、いつでも見学できます。

Aに限らず、Bの面でも...

経済に限らず、文化の面でも影響がある。

Aに限らず、～全般において...

ネットに限らず、メディア全般において...

Aに限らず、Bを包含する...

法人に限らず、個人も包含する規定だ。

Aに限らず、～の深層にまで...

語彙に限らず、文法の深層にまで及ぶ。

Word Family

Nouns

限り (kagiri) - limit, boundary

限界 (genkai) - limit, threshold

限定 (gentei) - restriction, limitation

Verbs

限る (kagiru) - to limit, to restrict

見限る (mikagiru) - to give up on, to abandon

Adjectives

限られた (kagirareta) - limited (e.g., limited time)

限定的 (genteiteki) - restrictive

無制限 (museigen) - unlimited

期限 (kigen) - deadline

門限 (mongen) - curfew

最小限 (saishougen) - minimum

How to Use It

frequency

High in formal writing and news; medium in daily polite conversation.

Common Mistakes

Using with adjectives directly. → 高いだけでなく (Not only expensive)
You cannot say 'Takai ni kagirazu'. 'Ni kagirazu' only follows nouns. For adjectives, use 'dake de naku'.
Confusing with 'ni kagiri'. → 今日に限り (Only today)
'Ni kagiri' means 'only', while 'ni kagirazu' means 'not only'. They are opposites.
Using 'ni kagirazu' in casual chat. → これだけじゃなくて (Not just this...)
Using 'ni kagirazu' with friends can sound like you're reading a textbook. It's too formal for casual talk.
Omitting the noun. → 日本に限らず (Not limited to Japan)
You must have a noun before the phrase. You can't just start a sentence with 'Ni kagirazu...'.
Using unrelated categories. → 東京に限らず、大阪も...
The two items should logically belong to the same broader group. Comparing 'Apples' and 'Space Travel' with 'ni kagirazu' is weird.

Tips

Noun Connection

Always connect 'ni kagirazu' directly to a noun. Do not use particles like 'no' or 'ga' in between. It's 'Noun + に限らず'.

When to Use

Save this for presentations, essays, and news-like reports. It elevates your Japanese from 'conversational' to 'professional'.

Broadening Scope

Use it when the second part of your sentence is a bigger category than the first. 'Not just apples, but all fruit' works great.

The 'Mo' Partner

Look for the particle 'mo' in the second half of the sentence. It's the best friend of 'ni kagirazu' and makes the sentence feel complete.

N2 Study

This is a core N2 grammar point. If you see it in a multiple-choice question, check if the sentence is expanding a scope.

Set Phrases

Memorize '老若男女に限らず' (Regardless of age or gender). It's a very common set phrase in Japanese media.

Formal Essays

In essays, use 'ni kagirazu' to transition from a specific example to your main, broader argument.

News Marker

When you hear this on the news, the reporter is about to tell you how widespread a problem or trend is.

Objective Tone

Unlike 'wa mochiron' (which is subjective), 'ni kagirazu' is objective. Use it when stating facts rather than opinions.

Classical 'Zu'

The 'zu' ending is classical. Knowing this helps you identify other formal grammar points that end in 'zu'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Kagiru' as a 'Cage'. 'Ni kagirazu' means 'Not in a cage'. If something is not in a cage, it can go anywhere and apply to anyone! It's not limited!

Visual Association

Imagine a circle drawn around a small group of people. Then, imagine someone erasing the circle and drawing a much larger one that includes everyone in the area. That 'erasing the limit' is 'ni kagirazu'.

Word Web

Limit Boundary Expansion Inclusion Formal Not only Universal Scope

Challenge

Try to write three sentences about your hobbies using 'ni kagirazu'. For example: 'Not limited to weekends, I study Japanese every day.' or 'Not limited to Japanese food, I like all Asian food.'

Word Origin

The phrase is composed of the particle 'ni' (に), the verb 'kagiru' (限る), and the classical negative auxiliary verb 'zu' (ず). 'Kagiru' comes from the noun 'kagi' which historically referred to a boundary or a hook that secures something. In ancient Japanese, 'kagiru' meant to set a boundary or to define the end of something.

Original meaning: Without setting a boundary to [Noun].

Japonic

Cultural Context

When using 'ni kagirazu' with groups of people, ensure the comparison is logical and respectful. It is a neutral phrase, but like all categorizations, it should be used thoughtfully.

English speakers often use 'not only... but also' very casually. In Japanese, 'ni kagirazu' is more formal than its English counterpart. English speakers should be careful not to use it in very casual settings where 'dake de naku' would fit better.

Used frequently in NHK News (Japan's national broadcaster) to report on nationwide trends. Often appears in Japanese Constitution-related discussions regarding 'rights not limited to...' Commonly found in the 'Scope of Application' section of Japanese software Terms of Service.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

News/Weather Reports

関東地方に限らず
今日に限らず
一部の地域に限らず
大雨に限らず

Business/Recruitment

経験者に限らず
学歴に限らず
部署に限らず
国内市場に限らず

Marketing/Product Reviews

初心者に限らず
料理に限らず
プロに限らず
スマホに限らず

Social Issues/Essays

日本に限らず
現代に限らず
若者に限らず
経済的な理由に限らず

Education/Academic

理論に限らず
歴史に限らず
科学に限らず
学生に限らず

Conversation Starters

"最近の流行りは、若者に限らず、広い世代に広がっていますよね？ (Recent trends are spreading across wide generations, not just young people, right?)"

"この問題は、私たちの会社に限らず、業界全体の課題だと思いませんか？ (Don't you think this problem is a challenge for the whole industry, not just our company?)"

"日本料理に限らず、どこの国の料理が一番好きですか？ (Not limited to Japanese food, what country's food do you like best?)"

"平日に限らず、週末も忙しいタイプですか？ (Are you the type who is busy on weekends too, not just weekdays?)"

"アニメに限らず、日本の文化で他に興味があるものはありますか？ (Not limited to anime, is there anything else in Japanese culture you're interested in?)"

Journal Prompts

今日学んだことは、日本語に限らず、他のことにも応用できそうですか？ (Can what you learned today be applied to things other than Japanese?)

自分の国に限らず、世界中で解決すべきだと思う問題について書いてください。 (Write about a problem you think should be solved worldwide, not just in your own country.)

仕事や勉強に限らず、人生で大切にしている価値観は何ですか？ (Not limited to work or study, what values do you cherish in life?)

最近買った便利なものは、一つの目的に限らず、色々な使い方ができますか？ (Can the useful thing you bought recently be used in various ways, not just for one purpose?)

あなたが尊敬する人は、仕事に限らず、私生活でも素晴らしい人ですか？ (Is the person you respect wonderful in their private life too, not just in their work?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Generally, no. It is almost always used with nouns. If you need to use a verb, nominalize it with 'koto' (e.g., 'taberu koto ni kagirazu'), but 'dake de naku' is much more natural for verbs.

Yes, it is a formal and polite expression. It is very appropriate for business meetings, reports, and presentations.

They are opposites. 'Ni kagirazu' means 'not limited to' (broad scope). 'Ni kagiri' means 'limited only to' (narrow scope). For example, 'Today only' is 'Kyou ni kagiri'.

It is not strictly required, but it is very common. Using 'mo' (also) helps complete the logical structure of 'not only A but ALSO B'.

Yes, it is a common grammar point for the JLPT N2 level. You should definitely know it if you are aiming for intermediate or advanced certification.

Yes. For example, 'This problem is not limited to Tokyo' (Kono mondai wa Toukyou ni kagirazu...). It is used for both positive and negative contexts.

Close, but not exactly. 'Regardless of' is 'wo towazu'. 'Ni kagirazu' is 'not limited to'. They are often used in similar places, but 'ni kagirazu' emphasizes that the scope is wider than the example.

It might sound a bit too formal or 'stiff' for a casual text. 'Dake de naku' or just 'mo' would be more natural for texting friends.

It's like the 'z' in 'zebra' followed by a very short 'u'. In Japanese, the final 'u' is often whispered or nearly silent.

Yes, the 'kagira' part comes from '限る'. So it can be written as 'に限らず'. Both kanji and hiragana versions are common, but the kanji is preferred in formal writing.