When you want to say "even" in Japanese, you can use 〜さえ. This particle attaches to a noun to emphasize that something is true for that noun, and by extension, for other things too. It often implies a sense of surprise or unlikeliness. For example, if you say "even a child knows that," it means it's a very simple thing. You'll often see it used in negative sentences to emphasize that not even the most basic thing is happening.
When you want to express the idea of "even" in Japanese, you can use the particle 〜さえ. It emphasizes that something unexpected or extreme is included. For example, if you want to say "Even a child can understand it," you would use 〜さえ with "child." It attaches directly to the noun you want to emphasize. This particle adds a sense of surprise or highlighting to the noun it follows.
When used with a noun, 〜さえ (sae) emphasizes that the item mentioned is an extreme or unexpected case, implying that other, less extreme cases are also included. For example, if you say 「子供さえ知っている」 (kodomo sae shitte iru), it means "Even a child knows it." This implies that if a child knows it, then adults definitely know it too.
It often carries a sense of surprise or unlikelihood that the mentioned item is included. You might use it to express that something is so basic or obvious that even someone who wouldn't normally be expected to know or do it, does. For instance, 「先生さえ間違えた」 (sensei sae machigaeta) means "Even the teacher made a mistake," highlighting the unexpectedness of a teacher making an error.
When used with a noun, ～さえ (sae) emphasizes that “even” the noun in question satisfies some condition or performs some action. It highlights an extreme or unexpected case, implying that if this case is true, then other, less extreme cases are also true. Often, it conveys a sense of surprise, disappointment, or emphasis on the extent of something.
For example, if you say 「子供さえ知っている」 (kodomo sae shitte iru), it means “even a child knows it,” suggesting that the information is very common knowledge. If you want to say “not even,” you can combine it with a negative verb, like 「水さえ飲めない」 (mizu sae nomenai), meaning “I can’t even drink water.”
It can also be used with verbs by changing the verb to its て-form and adding すら or さえ. For instance, 「忘れさえした」 (wasure sae shita) means “I even forgot.”
§ What 'さえ' means and how to use it
You've probably encountered the Japanese particle 〜さえ (sae) if you're an intermediate learner. It's a versatile little word that adds nuance to your sentences, often translating to 'even' in English. While it might seem straightforward, there are a few key ways to use it that can sometimes trip up learners. This guide will break down its common uses, provide clear examples, and offer some tips to help you master 〜さえ.
At its core, 〜さえ emphasizes an extreme or unexpected case, highlighting that something is true even in that particular situation. Think of it as pushing the boundaries of what's expected. It can apply to people, objects, actions, or conditions.
- DEFINITION
- 〜さえ (sae) is a particle that means 'even'. It emphasizes an extreme or unexpected case.
Let's look at some common patterns. The most frequent way you'll see 〜さえ is attached directly to a noun or a noun phrase. When used this way, it often implies a sense of 'at least' or 'even just'.
子供さえできる。
Even a child can do it. (This implies it's very easy.)
私さえ知らなかった。
Even I didn't know. (Emphasizing that if *I* didn't know, it must be obscure.)
Another common construction is Noun + さえ + Verbて-form + も. This structure expresses 'even if/when Noun does X, it still holds true' or 'there's a certain situation even if/when X happens'.
時間さえあれば、何でもできる。
If only I have time, I can do anything. (Emphasizing that time is the only thing needed.)
彼さえ知らないなら、誰も知らないだろう。
If even he doesn't know, then no one probably knows. (Highlighting his presumed knowledge.)
You'll also see 〜さえ used in negative sentences to convey a strong sense of 'not even' or 'not at all'. This adds a layer of intensity to the negation.
彼女は挨拶さえしなかった。
She didn't even say hello. (Implying a cold or rude interaction.)
電気さえつかない。
Even the lights won't turn on. (Indicating a complete lack of power.)
In some cases, 〜さえ can be used to list conditions, often in conjunction with 〜ば (ba) or 〜たら (tara) to mean 'if only... then...'. This emphasizes the minimum requirement for something to happen.
お金さえあれば、家が買える。
If only I had money, I could buy a house.
練習さえすれば、上手になる。
If you just practice, you'll get good.
Mastering 〜さえ will significantly improve your ability to express subtle nuances in Japanese. Remember to practice using it in various contexts to get a feel for its different implications. Don't be afraid to experiment with it in your own sentences!
§ How to Use 〜さえ (sae)
The particle 〜さえ (sae) is used to express "even" or "to the extent of." It highlights an extreme or unexpected case, often implying that if this extreme case is true, then other, less extreme cases are also true. It can also imply a sense of minimum requirement or sufficiency.
〜さえ can attach to nouns, noun phrases, or the te-form of verbs. The meaning shifts slightly depending on what it attaches to, but the core idea of "even" remains.
§ Attaching to Nouns and Noun Phrases
When 〜さえ attaches directly to a noun or noun phrase, it replaces existing particles like が (ga), を (o), and は (wa). For other particles like に (ni), で (de), と (to), から (kara), and まで (made), 〜さえ comes after them.
- Structure:
- Noun + さえ
Noun + Particle + さえ
This usage emphasizes the noun, indicating that "even this noun" is involved or affected. It often implies a sense of surprise or an extreme example.
子供さえわかる簡単な問題だ。(Kodomo sae wakaru kantan na mondai da.)
- Hint:
- It's an easy problem that even a child can understand.
彼は名前さえ知らない。(Kare wa namae sae shiranai.)
- Hint:
- He doesn't even know my name.
この店は日曜日さえ開いている。(Kono mise wa nichiyoubi sae aiteiru.)
- Hint:
- This shop is open even on Sundays.
§ Attaching to the Te-form of Verbs
When 〜さえ attaches to the te-form of a verb, it usually forms 〜てさえ (tesae). This construction expresses the idea of "even doing (something)." It often implies an extreme or unexpected action, or a minimum condition for something to happen.
- Structure:
- Verb (te-form) + さえ
食べるものさえない。(Taberu mono sae nai.)
- Hint:
- There isn't even anything to eat. (Implies a dire situation where a basic necessity is missing.)
あの人は、歩くことさえできない。(Ano hito wa, aruku koto sae dekinai.)
- Hint:
- That person can't even walk.
§ 〜さえ...ば (sae...ba) Construction
The combination of 〜さえ (sae) with the ば (ba) form of a verb or adjective creates a common and highly useful grammatical pattern: "if only X, then Y." This structure expresses a minimum condition for a desired outcome. It implies that if this one condition is met, everything else will follow, or a problem will be resolved.
- Structure:
- Noun + さえ + Verb (ば-form) / Adjective (ければ/であれば)
This is particularly useful for expressing that one specific condition is crucial.
時間さえあれば、この仕事を終えられる。(Jikan sae areba, kono shigoto o oerareru.)
- Hint:
- If only I had enough time, I could finish this job.
あなたさえよければ、行きたいです。(Anata sae yokereba, ikitai desu.)
- Hint:
- If only it's okay with you, I want to go.
漢字さえ読めれば、日本の本が読める。(Kanji sae yomereba, Nihon no hon ga yomeru.)
- Hint:
- If only you can read kanji, you can read Japanese books.
§ What 「〜さえ」 means
- Japanese Word
- 〜さえ
- Definition
- Even (particle)
§ 「〜さえ」 at Work
You'll hear 「〜さえ」 often in work settings when people want to emphasize a point, especially when talking about difficulties or expectations. It adds a sense of 'even this surprisingly' or 'even that minimum requirement'.
これはさえできないの？
Translation hint: "Can't you even do this?" (A manager might say this when frustrated.)
彼は名前さえ覚えていない。
Translation hint: "He doesn't even remember my name." (Used to express disappointment or a surprising lack of knowledge.)
§ 「〜さえ」 in School
In academic settings, 「〜さえ」 can be used by students and teachers alike to talk about basic understanding, unexpected difficulties, or exceptional circumstances.
この問題は初心者さえ解ける。
Translation hint: "Even beginners can solve this problem." (Used to indicate the simplicity of a task.)
テスト勉強する時間さえなかった。
Translation hint: "I didn't even have time to study for the test." (Expressing a lack of even a basic opportunity.)
§ 「〜さえ」 in the News
News reports use 「〜さえ」 to highlight extreme situations, unexpected events, or to emphasize a point about widespread impact. It adds a touch of drama and significance to the information.
専門家さえ予測できなかった。
Translation hint: "Even experts couldn't predict it." (Used to show the unpredictability or severity of an event.)
子どもさえ知っている事実だ。
Translation hint: "It's a fact that even children know." (Emphasizing how common knowledge something is.)
§ Other Common Uses
Beyond specific contexts, 「〜さえ」 appears in everyday conversations to express a range of emphasis. Here are a few more examples:
To show a minimum requirement:
水さえあれば大丈夫。
Translation hint: "As long as I even have water, I'll be fine."
To express surprise or incredulity:
彼が嘘をつくなんて、私さえ信じられない。
Translation hint: "I can't even believe he would lie."
§ Don't Confuse With 〜でも
Many learners get confused between 〜さえ and 〜でも. While both can express a similar idea of 'even,' their nuances are different. 〜さえ emphasizes the surprising or unexpected inclusion of something, often implying that if *this* is true, then other things are also true or possible. It highlights an extreme case to make a point.
子供さえできることだ。
- Hint
- Even a child can do it. (Implying it's very easy.)
On the other hand, 〜でも often implies 'even if' or 'even though,' and can also mean 'anything' or 'anywhere' when combined with question words. When used to mean 'even,' it suggests a wider range of possibilities, often with a sense of concession or generality. It doesn't carry the same strong emphasis on an extreme case as 〜さえ.
子供でもできることだ。
- Hint
- Even a child can do it. (It's possible for children too, among others.)
§ Incorrect Particle Usage Before 〜さえ
When 〜さえ is used after a noun, it often replaces other particles like が or を. However, it can follow other particles like に, で, と, or から. A common mistake is to keep particles that should be replaced or omit particles that should be kept.
§ Replacing が/を
When the noun is the subject or direct object, 〜さえ usually replaces が or を.
時間さえない。
- Hint
- I don't even have time. (Incorrect: 時間がさえ).
§ Following Other Particles
With particles like に, で, と, or から, 〜さえ is added after them.
彼にさえ言わなかった。
- Hint
- I didn't even tell him. (Incorrect: 彼さえ or 彼さえに).
§ Misunderstanding the Implied Meaning
〜さえ often carries an implicit negative or conditional nuance, especially when used with verbs or phrases that express inability, impossibility, or a lack of something. Learners sometimes miss this underlying implication, leading to sentences that sound unnatural or convey the wrong message.
彼女は挨拶さえしなかった。
- Hint
- She didn't even greet me. (Implies a strong sense of unfriendliness or rudeness.)
Using 〜さえ with a purely positive statement without a contrasting or surprising element can sound awkward.
（X）彼は毎日ご飯さえ食べる。
- Hint
- He even eats rice every day. (This sounds strange because eating rice daily isn't an 'extreme' or surprising action to emphasize.)
Curiosidade
The 'sa' in 'sae' is thought to come from a word meaning 'just' or 'only'.
Guia de pronúncia
Nível de dificuldade
A short, common particle.
Simple to write, just two hiragana characters.
Easy to pronounce and integrate into sentences.
Often clearly audible due to its emphasizing nature.
O que aprender depois
Pré-requisitos
Aprenda a seguir
Avançado
Gramática essencial
「〜さえ」 is used to emphasize that 'even' a surprising or extreme example is included, suggesting that others are also included.
子どもでさえできる (Even a child can do it.)
It often implies that if even this particular thing is true, then other less extreme things are also true.
名前さえ知らない (I don't even know the name.)
It can be used with nouns, noun phrases, and sometimes verb forms (when nominalized or followed by a particle like 「て」).
彼でさえ驚いた (Even he was surprised.)
When used with a verb in the 「〜て」 form, followed by 「さえ」, it can express a condition or a surprising extent.
考えてさえみればわかる (If you just think about it, you'll understand.)
It can be combined with other particles, such as 「〜にさえ」, to add nuance.
彼にさえ言わなかった (I didn't even tell him.)
Exemplos por nível
子供でさえ、そのゲームのルールを理解できました。
Even children could understand the rules of that game.
忙しい日でも、彼は朝食を食べます。
Even on busy days, he eats breakfast.
簡単な問題でさえ、私には難しかったです。
Even simple problems were difficult for me.
彼は疲れていて、立つことさえできませんでした。
He was so tired that he couldn't even stand.
雨が降っていても、私たちは公園に行きました。
Even though it was raining, we went to the park.
彼女は日本語が少し話せますが、ひらがなさえ読めません。
She can speak a little Japanese, but she can't even read hiragana.
彼は忙しいですが、いつも笑顔です。
Even though he's busy, he's always smiling.
この本は、初心者でさえ理解できます。
Even beginners can understand this book.
子供でさえわかる。
Even a child understands.
さえ emphasizes the unexpectedness of 'even a child'.
忙しくて、ご飯を食べる時間さえなかった。
I was so busy, I didn't even have time to eat.
さえ highlights the extreme lack of time.
彼は日本語だけでなく、英語さえ話せる。
He can speak not only Japanese but even English.
さえ adds emphasis to the unexpected additional skill.
この問題は、先生さえ知らないかもしれない。
Even the teacher might not know this problem.
さえ suggests that if the teacher doesn't know, it's a very difficult problem.
昨日、水さえ飲んでいない。
Yesterday, I didn't even drink water.
さえ emphasizes the absolute minimum not being met.
彼女は感謝の言葉さえ言わなかった。
She didn't even say a word of thanks.
さえ highlights the complete absence of a basic courtesy.
簡単な漢字さえ読めない。
I can't even read simple kanji.
さえ expresses frustration or difficulty with something basic.
彼は自分の名前さえ忘れてしまった。
He even forgot his own name.
さえ emphasizes an extreme case of memory loss.
その簡単な問題でさえ、彼には解けなかった。
Even that simple problem, he couldn't solve.
忙しすぎて、食事をする時間さえなかった。
I was so busy, I didn't even have time to eat.
子供でさえ、その話の真実性に疑問を抱くだろう。
Even a child would question the truthfulness of that story.
彼は疲れていて、立つことさえできなかった。
He was so tired, he couldn't even stand up.
この複雑な機械は、専門家でさえ操作に苦労する。
Even experts struggle to operate this complex machine.
信じられないかもしれませんが、彼は一度も海外に行ったことさえありません。
You might not believe it, but he has never even been abroad once.
その日、私たちは会話をすることさえ避けていた。
That day, we even avoided having a conversation.
彼女は新しい言語を学ぶのが得意で、数週間で文法さえもマスターした。
She's good at learning new languages; she even mastered the grammar in a few weeks.
Frequentemente confundido com
Also, too. Lacks the emphasis of surprise or the 'minimum' case that 〜さえ conveys.
Even (more formal and stronger emphasis than 〜さえ). While similar, ですら often implies an even more extreme or unexpected example.
Even (emphasizes the unexpected inclusion). This is often used with nouns directly. Functionally very similar to 〜さえ, with でさえ sometimes feeling a bit more direct or emphasizing the noun as a specific example.
Expressões idiomáticas
"まさか〜さえ"
Unexpectedly even...
まさか彼さえ知らなかったなんて。
neutral"〜さえあれば"
If only I had...
時間さえあれば、もっとできるのに。
neutral"〜さえしない"
Doesn't even...
彼は挨拶さえしない。
neutral"〜でさえ"
Even for...
子供でさえ知っていることだ。
neutral"〜さえも"
Even (emphasized)
彼女は感謝さえもしなかった。
neutral"〜とさえ"
Even to the extent of...
彼は私に嘘をついたとさえ言った。
neutral"〜さえ及ばない"
Cannot even compare to...
彼の才能は私には足元にも及ばない。
neutral"〜さえあれば十分だ"
Just having... is enough.
健康さえあれば十分だ。
neutral"〜さえ知らない"
Doesn't even know...
彼は自分の名前さえ知らない。
neutral"〜さえ諦めた"
Even gave up on...
夢さえ諦めてしまった。
neutralFácil de confundir
Many English speakers confuse 〜さえ with 〜も (also/too) and 〜ですら (even/as well). While they can sometimes be used interchangeably, 〜さえ emphasizes the surprising or unexpected nature of something being included, often implying a 'minimum' or 'extreme' case.
〜さえ highlights that something is included, often implying that if *that* is included, then other, more expected things are also included or possible. It often carries a nuance of 'even this much' or 'even this little.' 〜も simply adds something to a list without the same emphasis. 〜ですら is a more formal and stronger emphasis of 'even.'
彼は自分の名前さえ書けない。 (He can't even write his own name.)
Often confused with 「もう」 (already) because both relate to time. However, 「まだ」 means 'still' or 'not yet,' indicating continuation or non-completion, while 「もう」 means 'already' or 'anymore,' indicating completion or a change in state.
Use 「まだ」 when something is ongoing or has not happened. Use 「もう」 when something has happened or is no longer the case.
彼はまだ宿題をしている。(He is still doing his homework.)
Can mean 'quite' or 'rather' in a positive sense, but when followed by a negative, it means 'not easily' or 'with difficulty.' This duality can be confusing.
When followed by a positive adjective or adverb, it amplifies the meaning. When followed by a negative verb, it implies difficulty or lack of progress.
この本はなかなか面白い。(This book is quite interesting.) / 彼はなかなか来ない。(He's not coming easily / He's taking a long time to come.)
While it means 'of course,' learners sometimes overuse it or confuse it with more casual affirmations like 「はい」 (yes) or 「ええ」 (yes). It carries a stronger nuance of obviousness or certainty.
「もちろん」 implies something is self-evident or universally agreed upon. It's stronger than a simple 'yes' and can sometimes sound a bit formal or emphatic if used too frequently in casual conversation.
もちろん、行きます。(Of course, I will go.)
Often confused with 「やはり」's shorter form 「やっぱり」. Both mean 'as expected,' 'after all,' or 'as I thought,' but 「やはり」 is slightly more formal.
Both convey a sense of confirmation that something is as one expected or turns out to be. 「やっぱり」 is commonly used in casual speech, while 「やはり」 is suitable for more formal contexts.
やはり彼は来なかった。(As I expected, he didn't come.)
Como usar
The particle 〜さえ (sae) is used to express the meaning of “even” or “as much as.” It emphasizes the minimum or extreme case. When used with a noun, it directly attaches to the noun. For example, 子供さえできる (kodomo sae dekiru) means “even a child can do it.” It implies that if a child can do it, then anyone else should be able to. It can also be used with verbs in their 〜て form to mean “even if…” For example, 雨が降ってさえ (ame ga futte sae) means “even if it rains.”
A common mistake is confusing 〜さえ with 〜も (mo). While both can mean “even,” 〜さえ implies a stronger sense of surprise or unexpectedness. 〜も is more neutral. For instance, 彼も知らない (kare mo shiranai) means “he also doesn’t know,” while 彼さえ知らない (kare sae shiranai) means “even he doesn’t know,” implying that he is usually knowledgeable. Another mistake is using 〜さえ with verbs in their plain form. Remember to use the 〜て form for verbs. For example, it’s 食べてさえ (tabete sae), not 食べるさえ (taberu sae).
Memorize
Mnemônico
Imagine a shy person who barely speaks. You might say, "**Sa-e**ven *they* said something!" This connects the sound 'sa-e' with the meaning 'even' and the idea of something being surprising or an extreme example.
Associação visual
Picture a seesaw. One side is labeled with a common item, and the other side is dramatically heavier, labeled with a rare or extreme item. The particle 〜さえ (sae) is the fulcrum that *even* balances that extreme item, highlighting its surprising inclusion.
Word Web
Desafio
Try translating these sentences into Japanese, using 〜さえ: 1. Even a child can understand that. (子供/こども) 2. I don't even have time to eat. (食べる/たべる, 時間/じかん) 3. Even he was surprised. (彼/かれ, 驚く/おどろく)
Origem da palavra
From Old Japanese.
Significado original: Emphasizing inclusion to an extreme degree.
JaponicContexto cultural
In Japanese, 「〜さえ」 is often used to express a sense of surprise or emphasis that something unexpected is included. It can imply a negative or surprising outcome when used with certain sentence structures, highlighting an extreme example within a set of circumstances.
Teste-se 108 perguntas
Choose the correct particle to complete the sentence: わたしはひらがな___よめません。 (I can't even read hiragana.)
〜さえ emphasizes that 'even' the basic thing is not possible.
Which sentence uses 〜さえ correctly to mean 'even'?
〜さえ is used to emphasize an unexpected or extreme case, similar to 'even' in English.
Fill in the blank with the appropriate particle: こども___わかる。 (Even a child understands.)
〜さえ adds emphasis, indicating that 'even' a child understands.
You can use 〜さえ with adjectives to mean 'even beautiful'.
〜さえ attaches to nouns to mean 'even (a noun)'. For adjectives, you would typically use 〜でも or 〜さえも if you really want to emphasize it, but just 〜さえ isn't standard for directly modifying an adjective.
「これはこどもさえわかります。」 means 'Even a child understands this.'
「こどもさえ」 translates to 'even a child', and 「わかります」 means 'understands'.
〜さえ can be used interchangeably with 〜も (also).
While both add to a statement, 〜さえ adds emphasis of 'even' to an extreme or unexpected case, whereas 〜も simply means 'also' or 'too'. They are not always interchangeable.
This is something even I don't know.
Even a child can do it.
Even I don't eat it.
Read this aloud:
これは彼さえ知らない。
Focus: かれさえ
Você disse:
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Read this aloud:
猫さえ遊ぶ。
Focus: ねこさえ
Você disse:
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Read this aloud:
水さえ飲まない。
Focus: みずさえ
Você disse:
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Write a sentence in Japanese saying, 'Even a child can do this.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
子供さえこれできます。
Write a Japanese sentence meaning, 'Even I don't know.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
私さえ知りません。
Translate 'Even on Sunday, I work.' into Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
日曜日さえ働きます。
What can 'he' do, even though he says Japanese is difficult?
Read this passage:
彼は日本語が難しいと言いました。でも、ひらがなさえ読めます。
What can 'he' do, even though he says Japanese is difficult?
The passage states 'ひらがなさえ読めます' which means 'even hiragana can be read'.
The passage states 'ひらがなさえ読めます' which means 'even hiragana can be read'.
Who can read this book?
Read this passage:
この本はとても簡単です。子供さえ読めます。
Who can read this book?
The sentence '子供さえ読めます' translates to 'Even children can read it.'
The sentence '子供さえ読めます' translates to 'Even children can read it.'
What is the speaker unable to do because they are busy?
Read this passage:
私は忙しいです。朝ごはんさえ食べられません。
What is the speaker unable to do because they are busy?
'朝ごはんさえ食べられません' means 'I cannot even eat breakfast.'
'朝ごはんさえ食べられません' means 'I cannot even eat breakfast.'
This means 'Even I don't know.' The particle 'さえ' follows the noun or pronoun it modifies.
This means 'Even he can read kanji.' 'さえ' emphasizes that 'he' is included in a group that can read kanji, implying others might not.
This means 'There isn't even water.' 'さえ' here emphasizes the lack of something basic.
The sentence means 'Even children know.'
The sentence means 'I can't even write hiragana.'
The sentence means 'I can even read kanji.'
Read this aloud:
あなたさえいない。
Focus: あなたさえいない
Você disse:
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Read this aloud:
これは私さえできる。
Focus: これはわたしさえできる
Você disse:
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Read this aloud:
彼さえ食べない。
Focus: かれさえ食べない
Você disse:
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You are at a Japanese restaurant. Write a short sentence saying you can even eat natto, if you have to. (Natto is fermented soybeans, often considered challenging for foreigners.)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
私は納豆さえ食べられます。
Imagine your friend is very busy. Write a sentence saying they don't even have time to sleep.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
彼は忙しすぎて、寝る時間さえありません。
You are talking about how difficult a test was. Write a sentence saying that even the teacher couldn't answer the question.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
この質問は先生さえ答えられませんでした。
What does B mean by 「日本人さえ読めません」?
Read this passage:
A: この本は難しいですか？ B: はい、とても難しいです。日本人さえ読めません。
What does B mean by 「日本人さえ読めません」?
「さえ」emphasizes that even native Japanese speakers find the book too difficult to read.
「さえ」emphasizes that even native Japanese speakers find the book too difficult to read.
What does B's statement imply about 'hiragana'?
Read this passage:
A: 彼は日本語が上手ですね。 B: はい、彼はひらがなさえ書けます。
What does B's statement imply about 'hiragana'?
「さえ」 in this context implies that even the basic writing system (hiragana) is something he can do, suggesting his overall proficiency.
「さえ」 in this context implies that even the basic writing system (hiragana) is something he can do, suggesting his overall proficiency.
What is A asking for?
Read this passage:
A: この仕事は大変ですか？ B: はい、とても大変です。私さえ手伝ってくれませんか？
What is A asking for?
「私さえ手伝ってくれませんか」literally means 'Would you even help me?', but it's used to emphasize the difficulty and the need for help, implying that even the speaker (A) needs assistance.
「私さえ手伝ってくれませんか」literally means 'Would you even help me?', but it's used to emphasize the difficulty and the need for help, implying that even the speaker (A) needs assistance.
「〜さえ」は、驚きや強調を表すときに使われます。この文では、「彼でさえ」という形で、彼でも解けないほど難しい問題だったことを強調しています。
この文では、「子供でさえ」が「子供でもわかるほど簡単」という強調の意味で使われています。
「〜さえ」は、最小限のことや基礎的なことでさえも…ない、という状況を表す時にも使われます。この文では、名前さえ知らないほど、情報がなかったことを示しています。
日本語の先生で___分からなかった。
Here, 'さえ' (sae) means 'even' in the sense of 'even a Japanese teacher didn't understand it,' emphasizing the difficulty.
忙しすぎて、ご飯を食べる時間___ない。
'さえ' (sae) is used here to emphasize that the person is so busy, they 'don't even have' time to eat.
このテストは簡単すぎて、子供___できる。
'さえ' (sae) indicates that 'even a child' can do this easy test, highlighting its simplicity.
彼は漢字が読めない。ひらがな___読めない。
This sentence uses 'さえ' (sae) to convey that he can't read kanji, and 'even hiragana' is a challenge, emphasizing his difficulty with reading.
疲れていて、立つこと___できなかった。
Here, 'さえ' (sae) indicates that the person was so tired they 'couldn't even stand up,' emphasizing their exhaustion.
この問題は先生___答えられなかった。
'さえ' (sae) emphasizes that 'even the teacher' couldn't answer this question, suggesting its difficulty.
Choose the most appropriate particle to complete the sentence: 彼は日本語___話せます。
〜さえ emphasizes 'even' something unexpected or extreme. In this case, 'he can even speak Japanese'.
どの文が「〜さえ」を正しく使っていますか？
「〜さえ」は名詞の後に直接付きます。この文は「Even water, I can't drink」を意味します。
Complete the sentence: 子供___できる簡単なことです。
「子供さえ」は「even a child」を意味し、そのことがとても簡単であることを強調します。
「〜さえ」は、期待されることや当然のことに対して使われることが多い。
「〜さえ」は、むしろ意外なことや極端なことに対して「〜でさえ」という意味で使われます。
「彼はお金さえ持っていない。」という文は、「彼はお金すら持っていない」という意味である。
「〜さえ」は「〜すら」と同様に、「〜でさえも」という強調の意味で使われます。
「〜さえ」は動詞の後に接続して使う。
「〜さえ」は主に名詞や名詞句の後に接続して使われます。
This is a simple problem that even a child can understand.
I was so busy that I didn't even have time to eat.
Far from speaking Japanese, he can't even read hiragana.
Read this aloud:
そのニュースは私でさえ驚かせた。
Focus: sae
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
疲れていて、立つことさえできなかった。
Focus: tatsu koto sae
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
簡単な漢字さえ書けないのは恥ずかしい。
Focus: kanji sae kakenai
Você disse:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a sentence in Japanese using 〜さえ to express that 'even a child can understand it.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
この説明は子供さえ理解できます。
Construct a Japanese sentence using 〜さえ to indicate that 'even without money, you can be happy.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
お金さえなくても、幸せになれる。
Formulate a Japanese sentence using 〜さえ to convey 'even I don't know the answer.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
私さえ答えを知らない。
What does the passage imply about his Japanese ability?
Read this passage:
彼は日本語を1年間しか勉強していないが、漢字さえ読めるようになった。素晴らしい進歩だ。
What does the passage imply about his Japanese ability?
The phrase '漢字さえ読めるようになった' (even became able to read kanji) highlights his significant achievement in a short time.
The phrase '漢字さえ読めるようになった' (even became able to read kanji) highlights his significant achievement in a short time.
What is the implication if someone cannot solve this simple problem?
Read this passage:
この簡単な問題は、初心者さえ解けるはずだ。もし解けないなら、もう一度基本から学び直す必要がある。
What is the implication if someone cannot solve this simple problem?
The sentence '初心者さえ解けるはずだ' (even a beginner should be able to solve it) suggests that if one cannot, a fundamental lack of understanding exists.
The sentence '初心者さえ解けるはずだ' (even a beginner should be able to solve it) suggests that if one cannot, a fundamental lack of understanding exists.
What does the passage say about the person's free time?
Read this passage:
彼はとても忙しい人だ。週末さえ仕事をしていることが多い。ゆっくり休む時間がない。
What does the passage say about the person's free time?
The phrase '週末さえ仕事をしていることが多い' (he often works even on weekends) shows his lack of leisure time.
The phrase '週末さえ仕事をしていることが多い' (he often works even on weekends) shows his lack of leisure time.
This sentence uses 〜さえ to emphasize that 'even he' couldn't understand the problem, indicating its difficulty.
Here, 〜さえ highlights that 'even busy him' helped, showing his generosity despite his schedule.
This sentence uses 〜さえ to indicate that 'even a child' knows this simple thing, implying it's very easy.
彼女は忙しすぎて、食事をする時間___なかった。
「〜さえ」は「〜すら」と同様に「〜でさえ」という意味を表し、ここでは「食事をする時間でさえなかった」という強調を示します。
この問題は小学生___解けるだろう。
「〜すら」は「〜さえ」と同様に「〜でさえ」という意味を表し、ここでは「小学生でさえ解けるだろう」という強調を示します。
彼は漢字が苦手で、自分の名前___書けない。
「〜さえ」は「〜でさえ」という意味で、ここでは「自分の名前でさえ書けない」という極端な状況を強調しています。
病気で、水___飲むのが辛かった。
「〜さえ」は「〜でさえ」という意味で、ここでは「水でさえ飲むのが辛かった」という状況の厳しさを強調しています。
そんな簡単なこと、子供___知っている。
「〜さえ」は「〜でさえ」という意味で、ここでは「子供でさえ知っている」という事柄の容易さを強調しています。
忙しすぎて、睡眠時間___確保できない。
「〜さえ」は「〜でさえ」という意味で、ここでは「睡眠時間でさえ確保できない」という状況の厳しさを強調しています。
Choose the most appropriate word to fill in the blank: 彼は忙しすぎて、___食べる時間もなかった。
「〜さえ」は「〜すら」と同じように、極端な例を挙げることで、他のことも当然そうであることを強調します。この文脈では、彼が非常に忙しく、最も基本的な行為である「食べる」時間さえなかったことを強調しています。
Which sentence correctly uses 「〜さえ」?
「〜さえ」は名詞や名詞句の後に直接接続します。助詞「で」を伴う場合は「でさえ」となりますが、「も」と重ねて使う場合は「でさえも」のように使われることが多く、選択肢の「子供さえも」も誤りではありませんが、より自然なのは「子供でさえ」です。
「彼からの連絡は、メール___届かなかった」この文の空欄に最も適切な助詞を選びなさい。
「〜でさえ」は「〜すら」と同じく、あるものや事柄が極端な例であることを示し、それが起こらない（あるいはできない）ならば、他のより重要なことも当然起こらない（あるいはできない）というニュアンスを伝えます。この文脈では、メールという比較的カジュアルな連絡手段でさえ届かなかったことを強調しています。
「〜さえ」は、後ろに否定形が来ることが多い。
「〜さえ」は「〜すら」と同様に、極端な例を挙げることで、そのことさえもできない、あるいは起こらないという否定的な意味合いを強調するため、否定形と一緒に使われることが多いです。
「〜さえ」は、肯定的な意味で使われることはない。
「〜さえ」は肯定的な意味で使われることもあります。例えば、「彼でさえできるのだから、私にできないはずがない」のように、「〜さえも可能である」という強調を表すことがあります。
「〜さえ」は、動詞のて形に接続して使うことができる。
「〜さえ」は動詞のて形に接続して「〜てさえ」という形で使われることがあります。例えば、「忙しくて、寝てさえいなかった」のように、ある状態が極端であることを強調します。
Write a sentence using 「さえ」 to emphasize that even a very simple or obvious thing is included or possible. The sentence should be about everyday life or a common situation.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
彼は忙しすぎて、食事をする時間さえありません。
Create a sentence using 「さえ」 to express a negative situation where something important or expected is lacking. For example, 'Even money is not enough' or 'Even that isn't possible'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
このプロジェクトは難しすぎて、専門家でさえ成功させるのは難しいでしょう。
Write a sentence using 「さえ」 to show that something is so basic or fundamental that even a beginner or child knows it. Focus on a simple concept.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
この問題は、子供でさえ解けるほど簡単です。
この文章から、部長が会議の準備に費やした時間について何がわかりますか？
Read this passage:
今日の会議はとても重要で、部長でさえ準備に数日を費やしていました。しかし、結局は時間が足りず、いくつかの議題は次回の会議に持ち越しとなりました。
この文章から、部長が会議の準備に費やした時間について何がわかりますか？
「部長でさえ準備に数日を費やしていました。しかし、結局は時間が足りず」という部分から、数日費やしても十分ではなかったことがわかります。
「部長でさえ準備に数日を費やしていました。しかし、結局は時間が足りず」という部分から、数日費やしても十分ではなかったことがわかります。
この文章の主題は何ですか？
Read this passage:
最近の経済状況は厳しく、大企業でさえ倒産するケースが増えています。個人事業主にとっては、さらに厳しい状況が続いています。このような時代に生き残るためには、常に新しいビジネスチャンスを探し続ける必要があります。
この文章の主題は何ですか？
「大企業でさえ倒産するケースが増えています」という文が全体の状況を強調しています。
「大企業でさえ倒産するケースが増えています」という文が全体の状況を強調しています。
なぜ彼は緊張しているように見えたと考えられますか？
Read this passage:
彼はいつも冷静沈着な人物として知られていますが、先日のプレゼンテーションでは、彼でさえ少し緊張しているように見えました。それだけ重要なプレゼンテーションだったのでしょう。結果的に、彼のプレゼンテーションは大成功でした。
なぜ彼は緊張しているように見えたと考えられますか？
「それだけ重要なプレゼンテーションだったのでしょう」という文が、緊張の理由を説明しています。
「それだけ重要なプレゼンテーションだったのでしょう」という文が、緊張の理由を説明しています。
彼女は忙しすぎて、食事をする時間___ありませんでした。
「〜さえ」は「〜ですら」という強調の意味を持ち、この文脈では「食事をする時間ですらなかった」という忙しさの極限を表しています。
その問題は、専門家___解決できなかったほど難しい。
この文では「専門家ですら解決できなかった」と、問題の難しさを強調しています。この場合の「〜さえ」は「〜でさえも」と同様の意味で使われます。
子供___理解できるような簡単な言葉で説明してください。
「子供でさえ理解できる」という表現で、その説明が非常に簡単であることを強調しています。
彼は病気で、水___飲むことができなかった。
「水ですら飲むことができなかった」という強調で、病状の深刻さを表しています。
そのニュースは、彼女の冷静な態度___崩した。
「冷静な態度ですら崩した」という形で、ニュースの衝撃の大きさを強調しています。
この部屋は狭すぎて、ベッド___置くスペースがない。
「ベッドですら置くスペースがない」と表現することで、部屋の狭さを強調しています。
彼女は忙しすぎて、___食べる時間もなかった。
「〜さえ」は「〜すら」と同様に、極端な例を挙げて他のことも同様であることを強調する際に使われます。この文脈では、「食べる時間さえないほど忙しい」という強調が適切です。
この問題は、専門家___解決できないだろう。
「〜にさえ」は、対象が専門家のような能力を持つ人であっても困難である、という強調を表します。
彼は、自分の名前___忘れてしまった。
「名前さえ忘れる」という表現は、非常に記憶力が低下している状態を強調するために使われます。
「子供でさえ理解できる」という文は、子供には理解できないという意味である。
「〜さえ」は「〜でさえ」という形で使われる場合、「〜のような簡単なことでも」という意味で、肯定的な文脈で使われることが多いです。この場合、「子供でも理解できるほど簡単だ」という意味になります。
「彼さえ来れば完璧だ」という文で、「さえ」は「だけ」に置き換えることができる。
「〜さえ来れば」は、「〜が来れば他の問題は解決し、完璧になる」という強調の意味合いを含みます。「〜だけ来れば」も同様に条件を表しますが、「さえ」が持つ強調のニュアンスは弱まります。
「この料理は辛すぎて、一口さえ食べられない」という文は正しい。
「一口さえ食べられない」は、「非常に辛くて、ほんの少しも食べることができない」という極端な状況を強調する正しい使い方です。
「彼でさえ」で「彼ですら」という意味になり、その人が持つ能力や立場から考えると驚くべき、というニュアンスを含みます。日本語の語順に注意しましょう。
「忙しい彼でさえ」で「忙しい彼ですら」という意味になり、忙しい人でも時間を作ってくれた、という意外性を強調します。日本語の語順に注意しましょう。
「こんな簡単なことさえ」で「こんな簡単なことすら」という意味になり、簡単なことなのにできない、という驚きや非難のニュアンスを含みます。日本語の語順に注意しましょう。
/ 108 correct
Perfect score!
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