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これまで

B1 adverb #1,500 most common 16 min read

これまで

koremade Top 1,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips これまで in 30 Seconds

Explanation これまで in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners are introduced to 'kore made' as a basic time marker. It is primarily used in fixed expressions of gratitude or simple statements about duration. Students learn that 'kore' means 'this' and 'made' means 'until.' The focus is on understanding that this phrase marks the end of a period of time. Common examples include 'Kore made arigatou' (Thank you for everything until now) or 'Kore made benkyou shimashita' (I studied until now). At this stage, the nuance is very literal: 'up to this point.' Learners are encouraged to use it to describe simple activities that have just finished or to express thanks at the end of a lesson or interaction. The grammatical structure is kept simple, usually appearing as a standalone adverb at the start of a sentence. The goal is for the student to recognize the word in speech and use it to provide a basic temporal context for their actions. It is often taught alongside 'ima made' (until now) as a synonym, with the distinction between formal and informal registers being introduced only briefly. The primary objective is for the A1 learner to be able to say 'until now' without confusing it with 'from now on.' Exercises at this level focus on simple translation and identifying the correct particle 'made' to indicate the end of a time period.

At the A2 level, learners begin to use 'kore made' in more varied sentence structures, including its use with the particle 'no' to modify nouns. For example, 'kore made no shigoto' (work until now) or 'kore made no keiken' (experience until now). This allows students to talk about their background and history in a more structured way. They also start to encounter 'kore made' in negative sentences to express that something has never happened before, such as 'Kore made ichido mo sushi o tabeta koto ga arimasen' (I have never eaten sushi until now). The focus shifts from simple duration to the idea of 'so far' or 'to date.' Learners are taught to use 'kore made' to summarize their progress in learning Japanese or to describe their life experiences during self-introductions. They also begin to see the difference between 'kore made' (duration) and 'kore made ni' (by this time), although the distinction remains subtle. At A2, students should be able to use the word to link their past actions to their current situation, providing a more cohesive narrative when speaking about themselves. They are also introduced to the idea that 'kore made' is slightly more formal than 'ima made,' making it suitable for classroom or workplace settings. Exercises involve filling in the blanks in short paragraphs and creating simple sentences about their own history.

At the B1 level, 'kore made' becomes a vital tool for narrative transition and summary. Learners are expected to use it to organize their thoughts in longer speeches or essays. It is used to contrast the past with the present or future, often appearing in the pattern 'kore made wa... demo kore kara wa...' (Until now... but from now on...). This level emphasizes the word's role in summarizing 'the story so far' or 'the progress made to date.' B1 learners use 'kore made' in professional contexts, such as reporting on a project's status or explaining the background of a problem. They also learn more idiomatic uses, such as 'kore made ni nai' (unprecedented/never seen before). The distinction between 'kore made' and 'ima made' is reinforced, with 'kore made' being the preferred choice for objective reports and formal presentations. Students are also introduced to the dramatic 'kore made da' (it's all over) in the context of understanding media like anime or news. At this stage, learners should be comfortable using 'kore made' as both an adverb and a noun modifier with 'no.' They are also expected to understand the 'inclusive' nature of the word—that it encompasses everything up to the present moment. Exercises focus on reading comprehension of news articles and writing short reports that summarize past events using 'kore made.'

At the B2 level, learners master the subtle nuances and formal applications of 'kore made.' They use it to provide sophisticated summaries in business meetings, academic papers, and formal debates. The focus is on precision—using 'kore made' to define the exact scope of a discussion or a dataset. For example, 'Kore made no deeta ni yoru to...' (According to the data collected so far...). B2 learners are also expected to handle the 'kore made ni' vs. 'kore made' distinction with ease, using 'ni' to highlight specific occurrences within the timeframe. They encounter the word in more complex grammatical structures, such as 'kore made to wa kurabe-mono ni naranai' (incomparable to anything until now). The word is also used to discuss social and historical trends, such as 'kore made no Nihon no ayumi' (Japan's journey until now). At this level, students are encouraged to use 'kore made' to add weight and authority to their statements, showing a clear understanding of the 'keii' (process/background) of a situation. They also learn to recognize and use related formal terms like 'juurai' (conventional) as alternatives. Exercises include analyzing formal speeches and participating in discussions where they must summarize complex backgrounds using 'kore made.'

At the C1 level, 'kore made' is used with a high degree of stylistic awareness and rhetorical skill. Learners use it to frame complex arguments, often using it to establish a 'status quo' that they then proceed to challenge or analyze. It appears in high-level academic writing and professional discourse to summarize entire fields of study or historical eras. For example, 'Kore made no kenkyuu de wa akiraka ni sarenakatta...' (What has not been made clear in research until now...). C1 learners also understand the philosophical implications of the word—how it defines the boundary of human knowledge or experience at a given point in time. They can use it in literary analysis to discuss character development or plot structure. The word is used to create a sense of 'culmination' or 'climax,' signaling that the accumulated events of the past have reached a critical juncture. At this level, the distinction between 'kore made' and its synonyms is second nature, and the learner can choose the most appropriate term based on the desired tone, register, and nuance. They also understand the use of 'kore made' in classical or archaic contexts that might appear in older literature. Exercises involve writing persuasive essays and analyzing the rhetorical strategies used in famous Japanese speeches and editorials.

At the C2 level, the learner's use of 'kore made' is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. They use the word with complete mastery of its emotional, historical, and logical connotations. In this stage, 'kore made' is often used in the context of 'soukatsu' (comprehensive summary) or 'kaiko' (retrospection) in highly formal or literary settings. It might appear in the opening of a grand historical narrative or the concluding remarks of a lifetime achievement award speech. The learner can manipulate the word to create specific atmospheric effects—for example, using it to evoke a sense of nostalgia, finality, or revolutionary change. They are also aware of the most obscure idiomatic uses and can interpret the word correctly even in highly abstract or metaphorical contexts. At C2, 'kore made' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a tool for structuring reality and time in a way that is deeply rooted in Japanese linguistic and cultural traditions. The learner can engage in deep discussions about the concept of 'time' in Japanese culture, using 'kore made' as a primary example of how the language bridges the past and present. Exercises at this level involve translating complex literary texts, giving keynote-style presentations, and engaging in high-level philosophical debate.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

これまで in 30 Seconds

Means 'until now' or 'so far' in Japanese.
Used to summarize past events leading to the present.
Can be an adverb or a noun modifier (with 'no').
Slightly more formal and objective than 'ima made'.

The Japanese adverb これまで (kore made) is a cornerstone of temporal expression in the Japanese language, serving as a bridge between the past and the immediate present. At its most fundamental level, it is a compound of the demonstrative pronoun kore (this) and the limit-marking particle made (until/up to). When combined, they function as a single unit meaning 'until now,' 'so far,' or 'up to this point.' This word is essential for learners at the B1 level because it allows for the summarization of experiences, the marking of transitions, and the establishment of a historical context for current discussions. Unlike simple time markers, kore made often carries an implicit weight of accumulation—it suggests that everything that has happened from an undefined point in the past has led specifically to this moment.

Temporal Boundary: It marks the end of a period that started in the past and concludes at the moment of speaking. It is the 'stop' point on a timeline that began long ago.
Cumulative Nuance: It often implies a sense of 'all the things that have happened,' making it perfect for summaries or reflections on progress.

これまでの努力が実を結びました。(The efforts made until now have finally borne fruit.)

In daily life, you will encounter kore made in a variety of registers. In a casual setting, it might be used to talk about a long-running hobby or a relationship. In a professional setting, it is the standard way to introduce a report on project status or to thank a colleague for their long-term contribution. The word is versatile; it can act as an adverb modifying a verb, or it can be followed by the particle no to act as an adjective modifying a noun. This flexibility is part of why it is so frequently used in both spoken and written Japanese. When a speaker uses kore made, they are inviting the listener to look back at the journey taken before moving forward to the next topic or action.

これまでにないほど、緊張しています。(I am more nervous than I have ever been until now.)

Professional Usage: Used in business presentations to summarize quarterly results or project milestones before discussing future goals.

Furthermore, kore made is often used in negative sentences to emphasize that something has never happened before. For example, 'kore made ichido mo' means 'never once until now.' This highlights the rarity or novelty of a current event. It is also common in farewells or conclusions. When someone says 'kore made arigatou gozaimashita,' they are expressing deep gratitude for all the support they received throughout the entire duration of their relationship or tenure. This encompassing nature makes it a very emotive and respectful word when used correctly. It acknowledges the history and the time invested by all parties involved.

これまで、大変お世話になりました。(Thank you for everything you have done for me until now.)

これまでの経緯を説明してください。(Please explain the circumstances/process up to this point.)

Literary Context: In novels, it is used to summarize a character's life or a long-standing conflict before a major plot twist occurs.

In summary, kore made is not just a word for 'now.' It is a word for the 'journey to now.' It encapsulates the duration, the effort, and the events that have transpired, providing a necessary anchor for any discussion about the present state of affairs. Whether you are giving a speech, writing an essay, or just chatting with friends, mastering kore made will allow you to speak with greater precision and cultural sensitivity.

Using これまで (kore made) correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical versatility. It primarily functions as an adverb, but its role can shift depending on the particles that follow it. The most common usage is as a standalone adverb at the beginning of a sentence or immediately before a verb phrase to set the temporal context. When used this way, it modifies the entire action, indicating that the action has been ongoing or has reached a certain state by the present time. For example, in the sentence 'Kore made zutto matte imashita' (I have been waiting all this time), kore made emphasizes the duration of the wait leading up to the current moment.

Adverbial Position: Placed before the verb to indicate the duration or limit of an action. Example: これまで勉強しました (I studied until now).
Adjectival Position (with の): Followed by 'no' to modify a noun. Example: これまでの人生 (Life until now / My past life).

これまでに多くの本を読みました。(I have read many books so far.)

Another critical pattern is kore made ni. The addition of the particle ni changes the meaning slightly from 'during the period until now' to 'by this time' or 'at some point before now.' This is particularly useful when discussing achievements or experiences that happened at least once in the past. For instance, 'Kore made ni kido mo Nihon ni itta koto ga arimasu' (I have been to Japan several times so far). Here, ni emphasizes the occurrences within the timeframe. Without ni, the focus is more on the continuous state or the boundary itself. Understanding this subtle difference is key for B1 and B2 level learners who wish to express more nuanced temporal relationships.

これまで一度も嘘をついたことはありません。(I have never told a lie until now.)

Comparison with 'Ima made': While 'ima made' is very similar, 'kore made' is slightly more formal and objective. 'Ima made' is often used for personal feelings, while 'kore made' is used for facts and records.

In more advanced usage, kore made can be paired with da or desu to indicate finality or the end of a situation. The phrase 'Kore made da!' literally means 'This is as far as it goes!' but is often used idiomatically to mean 'It's all over!' or 'I've reached my limit!' This is a common trope in dramatic media like anime or movies. However, in polite conversation, you are more likely to see it used with the ~te kuru verb form, which indicates an action that has been moving toward the speaker (in time or space) from the past. 'Kore made ganbatte kita' (I have worked hard up to this point) perfectly captures the sense of continuous effort reaching the present.

これまでの経験を活かしたいです。(I want to make use of the experience I have gained so far.)

これまでとは違うやり方を試しましょう。(Let's try a different way than what we've done until now.)

The 'To wa' Pattern: Using 'kore made to wa' allows you to contrast the past with the future. It means 'compared to how things were until now.'

Finally, remember that kore made is inherently inclusive of the present moment. It doesn't just mean 'in the past'; it means 'the past as it touches the now.' This is why it is so often used with present perfect-style constructions in Japanese. Whether you are discussing your career, your studies, or the history of a nation, kore made provides the necessary temporal framework to make your sentences coherent and contextually rich.

The word これまで (kore made) is ubiquitous in Japanese society, appearing in contexts ranging from the highly formal to the everyday casual. One of the most common places you will hear it is in news broadcasts. News anchors frequently use it to summarize ongoing events or to provide historical context for a breaking story. For example, a report on the economy might begin with 'Kore made no keiki wa...' (The economic situation until now has been...), setting the stage for new data. In this context, it functions as a professional tool for synthesis and reporting, helping viewers understand the trajectory of a situation.

News & Media: Used to summarize long-term trends, weather patterns, or political developments. It provides a 'status report' feel to the broadcast.
Business Meetings: Essential for reviewing progress. 'Kore made no shinpochou' (Progress so far) is a standard phrase in project management.

これまでの放送を振り返ってみましょう。(Let's look back at the broadcasts we've had so far.)

In the world of entertainment, particularly in anime and manga, kore made is often used during 'recap' segments. You might hear the narrator say 'Kore made no arasuji' (The story so far), which is the standard way to catch viewers up on previous episodes. It is also used in dramatic dialogue. When a villain says 'Kisama no un mo kore made da!' (Your luck ends here!), they are using the 'finality' nuance of the word to signal a definitive end to the hero's streak of good fortune. This dramatic flair highlights the word's ability to define boundaries in time and fate.

これまでのあらすじを説明します。(I will explain the synopsis of the story so far.)

Academic Lectures: Professors use it to link today's lesson with previous ones. 'Kore made ni mananda riron' (The theories we have learned so far).

In daily social interactions, kore made is frequently heard during ceremonies and milestones. At a graduation ceremony, a student representative might speak about 'kore made no omoide' (memories until now), reflecting on their years at school. Similarly, at a retirement party, colleagues will use it to express gratitude for the retiree's years of service. It carries a sense of respect and acknowledgment for the time spent together. Even in casual conversation, if you are talking about a long-term project like learning Japanese, you might say 'Kore made sannenkan benkyou shite kimashita' (I have been studying for three years until now), which sounds more deliberate and reflective than simply saying 'three years.'

これまで支えてくれた家族に感謝します。(I am grateful to my family who has supported me until now.)

これまでの記録を塗り替えました。(He/She broke the record that had stood until now.)

Sports Commentary: Used when a player achieves something unprecedented. 'Kore made ni nai supiido' (A speed never seen until now).

Whether it is the formal language of a news report, the dramatic lines of a hero, or the heartfelt words of a friend, kore made is a word that Japanese people use to make sense of time. It allows them to group the past into a meaningful whole and present it as the foundation for whatever comes next. As you listen to more Japanese, you will notice that this word is often the key to understanding the 'big picture' of any conversation or narrative.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using これまで (kore made) is confusing it with its future-oriented counterpart, kore kara (from now on). While they both contain kore (this), the particles made (until) and kara (from) point in opposite directions on the timeline. Using kore made when you mean 'starting now' can lead to significant confusion, as you would be telling someone about the past when you intended to talk about the future. For example, saying 'Kore made ganbarimasu' (I will do my best until now) is grammatically nonsensical; the correct phrase for future commitment is 'Kore kara ganbarimasu.'

Directional Confusion: Confusing 'kore made' (past to present) with 'kore kara' (present to future). Always check the particle!
Register Mismatch: Using 'kore made' in very casual, slangy situations where 'ima made' would be more natural. 'Kore made' can sound a bit stiff if used with close friends for trivial matters.

❌ これまで、頑張ります。(I will do my best until now.) - Incorrect.
✅ これから、頑張ります。(I will do my best from now on.) - Correct.

Another common pitfall is the subtle distinction between kore made and ima made. While they are often interchangeable, ima made is generally more colloquial and personal. If you are talking to a friend about your feelings, ima made sounds warmer and more natural. Kore made, on the other hand, is more objective and slightly more formal. Using kore made in a very intimate setting might make you sound like you are giving a formal report rather than sharing a personal story. Conversely, using ima made in a formal business report might sound slightly too casual or subjective.

❌ これまでにないほど、お腹が空いた。(I'm hungrier than I've ever been.) - A bit formal for hunger.
✅ 今までにないほど、お腹が空いた。- More natural for personal feelings.

Particle Misuse: Omitting 'ni' when you mean 'by this time' or 'at least once before now.' 'Kore made' (duration) vs 'Kore made ni' (point in time).

Learners also sometimes struggle with the 'finality' nuance of kore made. In English, 'until now' doesn't necessarily imply that something is ending, but in Japanese, kore made da (It's until here) is a very strong way to say 'It's over.' If you accidentally use this phrase when you just meant to say 'I've finished my work for now,' you might sound much more dramatic or fatalistic than you intended. It's important to use the full polite form kore made ni shimashou (Let's stop here for now) if you want to suggest ending a meeting or a study session politely, rather than the blunt kore made da.

❌ もう、これまでだ。(It's all over/I'm doomed.) - Too dramatic for finishing a task.
✅ 今日はここまでにしましょう。(Let's stop here for today.) - Appropriate and polite.

❌ これまでは、良かったです。(Until now was good.) - Sounds slightly awkward.
✅ これまでは順調でした。(Things were going well until now.) - Much more natural.

Tense Consistency: Using 'kore made' with a future tense verb. Since it refers to the past up to now, the verb should usually be in the past or present continuous (~te iru) form.

By avoiding these common errors—confusing past and future, mixing registers, and misapplying the finality nuance—you will be able to use kore made with the confidence of a native speaker. Always pay attention to the context and the particles, as they are the keys to unlocking the correct meaning of this essential temporal adverb.

When exploring the temporal landscape of Japanese, it is helpful to compare これまで (kore made) with other similar terms to understand its unique position. The most direct alternative is ima made (今まで). While both mean 'until now,' ima made is more frequently used in casual, everyday conversation and often carries a more personal or emotional tone. If you are expressing surprise at how much time has passed or how much you have changed, ima made is the go-to choice. Kore made, by contrast, is more objective and is preferred in formal writing, business contexts, and when summarizing factual progress. It feels more like a 'report' on the past rather than a 'feeling' about the past.

これまで (Kore made): Objective, formal, summary-oriented. Best for business, news, and academic contexts. Focuses on the 'limit' or 'boundary' of the period.
今まで (Ima made): Subjective, casual, emotion-oriented. Best for personal stories, daily chat, and expressing feelings about time. Focuses on the 'now'.

今まで、ずっと言えなかった。(Until now, I couldn't say it.) - Emotional/Personal.
これまでの調査結果を報告します。(I will report the survey results so far.) - Objective/Formal.

Another word often confused with kore made is izen (以前). While izen also refers to the past, it means 'before' or 'previously' and does not necessarily include the present moment. Izen describes a point or period in the past that is separate from 'now.' In contrast, kore made always includes the entire span of time right up to the second the speaker is talking. If you want to say 'I used to live here,' you would use izen. If you want to say 'I have lived here until now,' you would use kore made. This distinction between a 'disconnected past' and a 'connected past' is vital for clear communication.

以前は、ここが公園でした。(Before, this was a park.) - Disconnected past.
これまでは、ここが公園でした。(Until now, this was a park.) - Suggests it's changing right now.

かつて (Katsute): A literary word meaning 'once' or 'formerly.' It is much more formal and poetic than 'kore made' and refers to a distant, finished past.
従来 (Juurai): A formal business/technical term meaning 'traditional' or 'up to now.' It is often used to contrast old methods with new ones.

For learners moving into higher levels (B2 and above), the word juurai (従来) is a sophisticated alternative to kore made in professional contexts. It is often used as a prefix to nouns, such as juurai no houhou (the conventional/traditional method). While kore made is a general-purpose temporal marker, juurai specifically highlights the 'established way of doing things' that has existed until now. Similarly, sakihodo (先ほど) means 'a little while ago' and is used for very recent past events, whereas kore made usually covers a much longer duration. By choosing the right word from this family of temporal expressions, you can convey your meaning with much greater nuance and sophistication.

従来のやり方では、時間がかかります。(With the traditional method, it takes time.)
これまでのやり方では、時間がかかります。(With the method we've used so far, it takes time.)

これまでに例を見ない大事件です。(This is a major incident unprecedented until now.)

前もって (Maemotte): Means 'in advance.' While 'kore made' looks back from now, 'maemotte' looks forward to a future event and suggests preparation.

Understanding these alternatives allows you to build a more complex and accurate mental map of Japanese time expressions. Kore made remains the most versatile and essential of the group, but knowing when to swap it for ima made for warmth or juurai for professional precision will significantly enhance your fluency and help you sound more like a native speaker.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The particle 'made' originally comes from a noun meaning 'limit' or 'boundary' in ancient Japanese, which is why it so effectively defines the end of a time period.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kɒɾɛ mɑːdɛ/

US /koʊɾɛ mɑːdɛ/

Flat pitch accent (Heiban), though 'ma' can sometimes have a slight rise depending on the sentence flow.

Rhymes With

Sore made (Until that) Are made (Until that over there) Dore made (Until which one) Ima made (Until now) Itsu made (Until when) Saki made (Until a while ago) Koko made (Until here) Soko made (Until there)

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'r' in 're' like an English 'r' (should be a tongue tap).
Elongating the vowels too much (Japanese vowels are short).
Stressing the first syllable 'Ko' (Japanese is generally flat).
Mispronouncing 'made' as 'maid' (it should be 'mah-deh').
Confusing the pitch with 'kore kara'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to read as it is usually in hiragana.

Writing 2/5

Simple to write, but requires understanding of particle usage.

Speaking 3/5

Requires correct pitch and natural placement in sentences.

Listening 2/5

Very common and easy to recognize once learned.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

これ (This) まで (Until) 今 (Now) から (From) 経験 (Experience)

Learn Next

これから (From now on) 従来 (Conventional) 以前 (Previously) 経緯 (Circumstances) 総括 (Summary)

Advanced

未曾有 (Unprecedented) 従来通り (As per tradition) これまでに例を見ない (Unparalleled)

Grammar to Know

Temporal particle 'made'

三時まで勉強しました。

Demonstrative 'kore'

これは本です。

Noun modification with 'no'

私の本。

Present perfect continuous '~te kuru'

頑張ってきました。

Experience pattern '~ta koto ga aru'

行ったことがあります。

Examples by Level

これまで、ありがとうございました。

Thank you for everything until now.

Used as a standalone adverb to express gratitude for a past period.

これまで勉強しました。

I studied until now.

Indicates the end of a study session.

これまで、どこにいましたか。

Where have you been until now?

Asks about the location during the preceding period.

これまで、雨が降っていました。

It has been raining until now.

Describes a continuous state that just ended.

これまで、お疲れ様でした。

Good job (for your work) until now.

A standard polite greeting for finishing a task.

これまで、これを読みました。

I read this until now.

Indicates the completion of a reading task.

これまで、ずっと待っていました。

I have been waiting all this time.

Emphasizes the duration of waiting.

これまで、楽しかったです。

It was fun until now.

Summarizes the emotional state of a past event.

これまでの人生で一番幸せです。

I am the happiest I've ever been in my life until now.

Uses 'no' to modify the noun 'jinsei' (life).

これまで一度も日本に行ったことがありません。

I have never been to Japan even once until now.

Used with 'ichido mo' and a negative verb for emphasis.

これまでの経験を話してください。

Please talk about your experience so far.

Modifies 'keiken' (experience) to mean 'past experience'.

これまで、この町に住んでいました。

Until now, I lived in this town.

Indicates a long-term state that is ending.

これまでに三回、その映画を見ました。

I have seen that movie three times so far.

Uses 'ni' to indicate occurrences within the timeframe.

これまでの努力が無駄になりました。

All the effort until now has gone to waste.

Summarizes all past efforts as a single noun phrase.

これまで、彼は親切でした。

Until now, he was kind.

Sets a contrast between the past and a sudden change.

これまで、何も知りませんでした。

Until now, I didn't know anything.

Indicates a state of ignorance that has just ended.

これまで勉強したことを復習しましょう。

Let's review what we've studied so far.

Used to summarize a curriculum or series of lessons.

これまでとは違うやり方を試してみます。

I will try a different way than what we've done until now.

Uses 'to wa' to contrast the past with a new approach.

これまでにないほど、緊張しています。

I am more nervous than I have ever been until now.

The pattern 'kore made ni nai' means 'unprecedented'.

これまで、プロジェクトは順調に進んでいます。

So far, the project is progressing smoothly.

Used as a status report adverb.

これまでの経緯を説明していただけますか。

Could you explain the circumstances up to this point?

'Keii' refers to the process or background events.

これまで、多くの困難を乗り越えてきました。

Until now, we have overcome many difficulties.

Uses '~te kuru' to show continuous action toward the present.

これまでの放送のあらすじです。

This is the synopsis of the broadcasts so far.

Standard phrase for recaps in media.

これまで、この秘密を守ってきました。

Until now, I have kept this secret.

Indicates a long-term commitment that is being broken.

これまでの調査結果に基づき、新しい計画を立てます。

Based on the survey results so far, we will make a new plan.

Formal usage in a professional decision-making context.

これまで培ってきた技術を、新製品に活かします。

We will apply the technology we've cultivated until now to the new product.

'Tsuchikau' (cultivate) is often paired with 'kore made'.

これまでの記録を大幅に更新しました。

The record until now was significantly broken.

Refers to the historical record as a cumulative limit.

これまでとは比較にならないほど、性能が向上しました。

The performance has improved beyond comparison with anything until now.

Uses 'hikaku ni naranai' for extreme contrast.

これまで、政府はこの問題に対して消極的でした。

Until now, the government has been passive toward this issue.

Used in political analysis to describe a long-standing stance.

これまでの議論を整理すると、以下のようになります。

Summarizing the discussion so far, it is as follows.

Standard phrase for synthesizing points in a meeting.

これまで、彼女の才能は正当に評価されてきませんでした。

Until now, her talent has not been properly evaluated.

Highlights a long-term injustice that is changing.

これまでの常識を覆す、画期的な発見です。

This is a groundbreaking discovery that overturns conventional wisdom until now.

'Joushiki' (common sense/wisdom) is often modified by 'kore made'.

これまで不透明だった事実が、ようやく明らかになった。

Facts that had been opaque until now have finally come to light.

Uses 'futoumei' (opaque/unclear) in a formal narrative.

これまでの研究成果を総括し、今後の展望を述べる。

I will summarize the research results so far and state the future outlook.

'Soukatsu' (summarize/generalize) is a high-level academic term.

これまでとは一線を画す、斬新なデザインだ。

It is a novel design that draws a line (sets itself apart) from everything until now.

'Issen o kakusu' is an idiomatic expression for being distinct.

これまで、我々は環境問題に対して無頓着すぎたのではないか。

Haven't we been too indifferent to environmental issues until now?

Used in a rhetorical question to prompt reflection.

これまでの経緯を鑑みると、この決定は妥当だと言える。

Considering the circumstances so far, this decision can be said to be appropriate.

'Kanzamiru' (to take into account) is a very formal verb.

これまで培ってきた信頼関係が、一瞬で崩れ去った。

The relationship of trust cultivated until now crumbled in an instant.

Contrast between long-term accumulation and sudden loss.

これまでとは打って変わって、彼は急に饒舌になった。

In a complete change from how he was until now, he suddenly became talkative.

'Utte kawatte' indicates a drastic change in behavior.

これまで、人類は数多くの試練に直面してきた。

Until now, humanity has faced numerous trials.

Used in a grand, historical or philosophical context.

これまでの方針を転換し、抜本的な改革に着手する。

We will shift the policy held until now and commence fundamental reforms.

'Bapponteki' (radical/fundamental) and 'chakushu' (commence) are C2 level vocabulary.

これまで、その存在は単なる伝説に過ぎないと考えられていた。

Until now, its existence was thought to be nothing more than a mere legend.

Uses 'ni suginai' (nothing more than) in a formal scholarly tone.

これまで積み上げてきた知見を、次世代に継承する義務がある。

We have an obligation to pass on the knowledge accumulated until now to the next generation.

'Chiken' (knowledge/insight) and 'keishou' (succession) are very formal.

これまでとは趣を異にする、独創的な芸術作品だ。

It is a creative work of art that differs in flavor/style from everything until now.

'Omomuki o koto ni suru' is a highly literary way to say 'to be different'.

これまで、言論の自由は幾多の制約を受けてきた経緯がある。

There is a history where freedom of speech has been subjected to numerous restrictions until now.

'Ikuta no' (numerous) is a literary/archaic counter.

これまでとは比較を絶する規模の、未曾有の大災害となった。

It became an unprecedented disaster on a scale beyond comparison with anything until now.

'Hikaku o zessuru' (beyond comparison) and 'mizou' (unprecedented) are advanced terms.

これまで、彼は沈黙を貫いてきたが、ついに重い口を開いた。

Until now, he had maintained his silence, but he finally opened his heavy mouth (spoke up).

'Chinmoku o tsuranuku' (to maintain silence) is a literary idiom.

これまで培われた美意識が、この建築様式に凝縮されている。

The aesthetic sense cultivated until now is condensed in this architectural style.

'Biishiki' (aesthetic sense) and 'gyoushuku' (condensation) are sophisticated terms.

Common Collocations

これまでの経験

これまでの努力

これまでの経緯

これまでのところ

これまでにない

これまで通り

これまで以上に

これまで一度も

これまでの人生

これまで培った

Common Phrases

これまで、ありがとう。

— Thank you for everything up to this point. Used in farewells.

これまで、本当にありがとうございました。

今日はここまでにしましょう。

— Let's stop here for today. Used to end meetings or classes.

時間が来たので、今日はここまでにしましょう。

これまでのあらすじ

— The story so far. Used in recaps of shows or books.

これまでのあらすじを三分で紹介します。

これまでとは違う

— Different from how it was until now. Used to signal change.

彼はこれまでとは違う態度を見せた。

これまでも、これからも

— Both until now and from now on. Expresses continuity.

これまでも、これからも、あなたを愛しています。

これまでに例を見ない

— Unprecedented. Used for major events or records.

これは、これまでに例を見ない大事件だ。

これまで一度も〜ない

— Never once until now. Emphasizes lack of experience.

これまで一度も海外に行ったことがない。

これまで、お世話になりました。

— Thank you for taking care of me until now. Formal farewell.

退職するので、これまで大変お世話になりました。

これまで、ずっと...

— All this time... Emphasizes duration.

これまで、ずっと一人で悩んでいました。

これまで以上に大切にする

— To cherish more than ever before. Expresses commitment.

家族をこれまで以上に大切にします。

Often Confused With

これまで vs これから

Means 'from now on' (future). 'Kore made' is 'until now' (past).

これまで vs 今まで

Very similar, but 'ima made' is more casual and personal.

これまで vs 以前

Means 'before' but doesn't necessarily connect to the present.

Idioms & Expressions

"これまでだ"

— It's all over; this is the end. Used in dramatic situations.

もう逃げられない、これまでだ！

Informal / Dramatic

"これまでと打って変わって"

— To change completely from how things were until now.

彼はこれまでと打って変わって、真面目になった。

Neutral

"これまで培ってきた"

— To have cultivated/built up until now (skills, trust).

これまで培ってきた人脈を活かす。

Formal

"これまでとは一線を画す"

— To be clearly distinct from everything until now.

この新製品は、これまでとは一線を画す性能だ。

Formal / Written

"これまでを振り返る"

— To look back on the past until now.

年末にこれまでの一年を振り返る。

Neutral

"これまで以上に"

— More than ever before.

これまで以上に努力が必要です。

Neutral

"これまで通り"

— As usual; in the same way as until now.

これまで通り、毎日練習を続けます。

Neutral

"これまでになく"

— Unusually; more than ever before.

今年はこれまでになく暑い夏だ。

Neutral

"これまでもそうであったように"

— Just as it has been until now.

これまでもそうであったように、今後も協力しましょう。

Formal

"これまでか"

— Is this the end? (Self-reflection on reaching a limit).

私の実力もこれまでか...

Informal / Dramatic

Easily Confused

これまで vs これから

Both start with 'kore'.

'Made' means until, 'Kara' means from. One looks back, one looks forward.

これから始めます (I will start now).

これまで vs 今まで

Identical meaning 'until now'.

'Ima made' is subjective/casual; 'Kore made' is objective/formal.

今までありがとう (Casual thanks).

これまで vs 以前

Both refer to the past.

'Izen' is a point or period in the past; 'Kore made' is the whole span up to now.

以前会いました (We met before).

これまで vs かつて

Both refer to 'formerly'.

'Katsute' is literary and refers to a distant, finished past.

かつて栄えた町 (A town that once flourished).

これまで vs 従来

Both mean 'up to now'.

'Juurai' is formal and usually refers to 'conventional' ways or systems.

従来の技術 (Conventional technology).

Sentence Patterns

これまで、[Verb-Past]。

これまで、勉強しました。

これまで、一度も[Verb-Negative]。

これまで、一度も食べたことがありません。

これまで[Verb-Te]きました。

これまで、頑張ってきました。

これまでとは違う[Noun]。

これまでとは違うやり方です。

これまでの[Noun]に基づき、[Action]。

これまでのデータに基づき、判断します。

これまでにないほど[Adjective]。

これまでにないほど美しい。

これまで[Adjective]だった[Noun]が、[Change]。

これまで不明だった原因が、判明した。

これまで培われた[Noun]を[Action]。

これまで培われた伝統を守る。

Word Family

Nouns

これまで (Can function as a noun with particles like 'no')

これ (This)

まで (Until)

これから (From now on)

これまで通り (As before)

これまでのところ (So far)

How to Use It

frequency

Very High in both spoken and written Japanese.

Common Mistakes

Using 'kore made' for future plans. → これから頑張ります。
'Kore made' means 'until now.' If you want to say 'from now on,' you must use 'kore kara.'
Using 'kore made' in very casual chat where 'ima made' is better. → 今まで、どこにいたの？
'Kore made' can sound a bit too formal or objective for a casual question to a friend.
Saying 'kore made da' to mean 'I'm finished with my homework.' → 宿題が終わりました。
'Kore made da' is very dramatic and means 'It's all over' or 'I'm at my limit.' It's not for simple task completion.
Confusing 'kore made' with 'izen'. → これまで、ここに住んでいました。
'Izen' means 'before' (disconnected from now). 'Kore made' means 'until now' (connected to now).
Omitting 'no' when modifying a noun. → これまでの経験。
Since 'kore made' acts like a noun in this context, you need the particle 'no' to link it to another noun.

Tips

Use with Past Tense

Since 'kore made' refers to the past up to now, the main verb of the sentence is usually in the past tense (~ta) or the present continuous (~te iru) form. Avoid using it with pure future tense.

Formal Farewells

When leaving a job or finishing a project, 'kore made o-sewa ni narimashita' is the most respectful way to thank people for their support over the entire duration of your time there.

Summarizing

Use 'kore made' at the start of a concluding paragraph to summarize your main points. It acts as a signal to the reader that you are synthesizing the information provided so far.

Recap Signal

When you hear 'kore made no...' in a video or podcast, it's a signal that a summary is coming. This is a great time to check your understanding of what has happened in the story or discussion.

Objective vs Subjective

Choose 'kore made' for facts, data, and professional summaries. Choose 'ima made' for feelings, surprises, and personal anecdotes. This subtle choice will make you sound more like a native speaker.

Pair with 'Keii'

The word 'keii' (circumstances/process) is a perfect partner for 'kore made'. Use 'kore made no keii' to ask for or provide a background explanation of a situation.

Contrast with 'Kore Kara'

Create powerful sentences by using 'kore made' and 'kore kara' together. 'Kore made wa A deshita ga, kore kara wa B ni shimasu' (Until now it was A, but from now on I'll do B).

The 'Ni' Particle

Remember that adding 'ni' (これまでに) focuses on specific events within the timeframe, while leaving it off (これまで) focuses on the duration or the boundary itself.

Respect the Process

Using 'kore made' shows that you recognize the time and effort others have put in. It is a key part of 'keigo' (polite language) culture to acknowledge the history of an interaction.

Daily Reflection

At the end of your day, try saying 'Kore made no ichi-nichi o furikaeru' (Looking back on the day until now) and list three things you did. This is great practice for the summary function.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

KORE (This) + MADE (Until) = Until this moment. Imagine a line in the sand at your feet (kore) and everything behind it is the past.

Visual Association

A progress bar that is filled up to the 90% mark, representing everything done 'until now'.

Word Web

Time Past Present Boundary Summary Experience History Limit

Challenge

Try to use 'kore made' in three different ways today: once to say thank you, once to describe a hobby, and once to summarize your day.

Word Origin

A compound of the Old Japanese demonstrative 'kore' (this) and the particle 'made' (limit/extent).

Original meaning: Up to this (point/time).

Japonic

Cultural Context

Be careful with 'kore made da' as it can sound very aggressive or fatalistic in the wrong context.

English speakers often use 'so far' or 'until now' interchangeably, but 'kore made' is more common in formal summaries than its English counterparts.

Recap segments in anime like 'One Piece' or 'Naruto' often start with 'Kore made no arasuji...' Dramatic lines in samurai films: 'Kisama no un mo kore made da!' (Your luck ends here!) Standard opening for news reports on long-term trends.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business Report

これまでの進捗状況
これまでの売上
これまでの課題
これまでの成果

Farewell Party

これまでお世話になりました
これまでありがとうございました
これまでの思い出
これまでを振り返って

Self-Introduction

これまでの経歴
これまでの学習内容
これまでの活動
これまで培ったスキル

News / Weather

これまでの最高気温
これまでの被害状況
これまでの推移
これまでにない規模

Daily Chat

これまで何してた？
これまでずっと
これまで一度も
これまで通りでいい

Conversation Starters

"これまでで一番感動した映画は何ですか？"

"これまで、どんな国に行ったことがありますか？"

"これまで勉強した中で、一番難しかったことは何ですか？"

"これまで、どんな仕事を経験してきましたか？"

"これまでで一番の思い出を教えてください。"

Journal Prompts

これまでの人生で、一番大きな挑戦は何でしたか？

これまで日本語を勉強してきて、一番嬉しかった瞬間について書いてください。

これまでの自分の成長を振り返って、今の自分にメッセージを書いてください。

これまでに行った場所の中で、もう一度行きたい場所はどこですか？

これまで大切にしてきた価値観について説明してください。

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, it is slightly more formal and objective than 'ima made.' It is perfectly appropriate for business meetings, reports, and formal speeches. In very casual settings with close friends, 'ima made' might sound more natural, but 'kore made' is never wrong.

No. 'Kore made' specifically refers to the period ending at the present moment. For the future, you must use 'kore kara' (from now on) or 'kongo' (in the future). Using 'kore made' for future actions is a common mistake for beginners.

'Kore made' usually emphasizes the entire duration or the limit of a period. 'Kore made ni' emphasizes a specific point in time or a number of occurrences within that period. For example, 'kore made benkyou shita' (studied until now) vs 'kore made ni san-kai itta' (went three times so far).

Yes, in the idiomatic phrase 'kore made da,' it means 'this is the end' or 'it's all over.' This is common in dramatic contexts like anime. However, in polite speech, you would say 'kyou wa koko made ni shimashou' to mean 'let's stop here for today.'

You simply add the particle 'no' after it. For example, 'kore made no doryoku' (efforts until now) or 'kore made no keiken' (experience until now). This allows the phrase to function as an adjective describing the history of that noun.

Very often. News anchors use it to summarize the history of an event or to provide context for current statistics. It gives the reporting a professional and comprehensive feel.

Yes, 'so far' is one of the most common translations. It is used to give a status update on a task that is not yet finished. 'Kore made no tokoro, jun-chou desu' (So far, things are going smoothly).

The most direct opposite is 'kore kara' (from now on). While 'kore made' looks at the past leading to now, 'kore kara' looks at the future starting from now.

It can be written as '此れまで', but this is very rare. In modern Japanese, it is almost always written in hiragana as 'これまで'. Writing it in Kanji might make it look archaic or overly stiff.

Yes, it is inclusive. It refers to the entire span of time up to and including the very second the speaker is talking. It is the 'bridge' that connects all past events to the current situation.