At least, no more
Core words, Stage 3chunk 71 of 76Degree words
Lets you set a minimum, a limit, or say what matters most.
- semeteat least; if nothing else
- sukunakutomoat least; no less than
- kore ijouany more (than this); further
- nani yoriabove all; more than anything
Mix-ups Semete is a wish; sukunakutomo is a factual minimum.
semete
at least; if nothing else
The minimum you hope for or ask for.
Sukunakutomo is a factual 'at least'; semete is a wish or request.
okureru nara, semete renraku shite yo.
If you're going to be late, at least let me know.
遅れるなら、せめて連絡してよ。
okureru nara, semete renraku shite kudasai.
If you'll be late, please at least get in touch.
遅れるなら、せめて連絡してください。
Written せめてRank #1148 in 3,030 TV dramas
sukunakutomo
at least; no less than
A minimum estimate or fact.
Also 'at least' for one case: sukunakutomo watashi wa shiranakatta (I, at least, didn't know).
sukunakutomo ichijikan wa kakaru yo.
It'll take at least an hour.
少なくとも一時間はかかるよ。
sukunakutomo ichijikan wa kakarimasu.
It will take at least an hour.
少なくとも一時間はかかります。
Written 少なくとも · すくなくともRank #1939 in 3,030 TV dramas
kore ijou
any more (than this); further
Usually with a negative to draw a line: kore ijou muri (I can't take any more).
After a number, ijou means 'or more': juunin ijou (ten or more people).
mou kore ijou taberarenai.
I can't eat any more.
もうこれ以上食べられない。
mou kore ijou taberaremasen.
I couldn't eat another bite.
もうこれ以上食べられません。
Written これ以上 · これいじょうRank #598 in 3,030 TV dramas
nani yori
above all; more than anything
Picks out the most important point.
Ogenki de nani yori desu = I'm so glad you're well (polite set phrase).
nani yori, minna buji de yokatta.
Most of all, I'm glad everyone's safe.
何より、みんな無事でよかった。
nani yori, minasan buji de yokatta desu.
Above all, I'm glad everyone is safe.
何より、皆さん無事でよかったです。
Written 何より · なによりRank #2143 in 3,030 TV dramas