JLPT N1 Grammar
Master essential grammar patterns for JLPT N1 level.
〜に至って
Meaning: as a result of / having reached the point where
Used to express reaching a particular state or conclusion
Examples:
- 事態が深刻になるに至って、ようやく対策を考え始めた。Only when the situation became serious did we finally start thinking about countermeasures.
- 問題が明らかになるに至って、謝罪した。Having reached the point where the problem became clear, he apologized.
Often used in formal or written Japanese.
〜を余儀なくされる
Meaning: be forced to / be compelled to
Used to express being forced to do something against one's will
Examples:
- 経済状況により、会社を閉鎖することを余儀なくされた。Due to economic conditions, we were forced to close the company.
- 事故により、計画の変更を余儀なくされた。Due to the accident, we were compelled to change our plans.
Very formal expression, often used in news or official documents.
〜に越したことはない
Meaning: nothing is better than / it's best to
Used to express that something is the best option
Examples:
- 健康に越したことはない。Nothing is better than health.
- 早めに準備するに越したことはない。It's best to prepare early.
Often used to give advice or express preferences.
〜を禁じ得ない
Meaning: cannot help but / cannot help feeling
Used to express unavoidable emotions or reactions
Examples:
- その話を聞いて、涙を禁じ得なかった。I couldn't help but cry when I heard that story.
- 彼の態度に怒りを禁じ得ない。I cannot help feeling angry at his attitude.
Very formal and literary expression.
〜が最後
Meaning: once / as soon as
Used to express that once something happens, a certain result is inevitable
Examples:
- 彼が話し始めたが最後、止まらない。Once he starts talking, he won't stop.
- このゲームを始めたが最後、やめられない。Once I start this game, I can't stop.
Used with past tense form of verbs + が最後.