〜なりとも
even a little ~
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜なりとも” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜なりとも」 means "even a little ~". Structure: Noun + なりとも. This is a JLPT N1 pattern — the examples below slot different everyday and workplace words into the same structure so you can see how it behaves. Learn the structure, then swap in your own words.
When to use it
Read the example aloud, then replace one detail with something from your own life.
Tone: Neutral
A general pattern; let the sentence ending and situation set the politeness level.
Use
Hear it in real life
Everyday life
Example 1一言なりとも採決について説明してほしい。
ひとこと なり と も さいけつ について せつめい して ほしい。
hitokoto nari to mo saiketsu nitsuite setsumei shite hoshii.
I want at least a word of explanation about the vote.
Shopping & services
Example 2一言なりとも買収について説明してほしい。
ひとこと なり と も ばいしゅう について せつめい して ほしい。
hitokoto nari to mo baishuu nitsuite setsumei shite hoshii.
I want at least a word of explanation about the acquisition.
Everyday life
Example 3一言なりとも志願について説明してほしい。
ひとこと なり と も しがん について せつめい して ほしい。
hitokoto nari to mo shigan nitsuite setsumei shite hoshii.
I want at least a word of explanation about the volunteering.
Everyday life
Example 4一言なりとも転載について説明してほしい。
ひとこと なり と も てんさい について せつめい して ほしい。
hitokoto nari to mo tensai nitsuite setsumei shite hoshii.
I want at least a word of explanation about the reprinting.
Everyday life
Example 5一言なりとも滞納について説明してほしい。
ひとこと なり と も たいのう について せつめい して ほしい。
hitokoto nari to mo tainou nitsuite setsumei shite hoshii.
I want at least a word of explanation about the payment arrears.
Make it yours
Choose one example. Replace one person, place, object, or time with a detail from your life, then say the new sentence aloud.
Recall
Test your memory
Recall practice
Can you say it?
1 of 5
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
I want at least a word of explanation about the vote.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜なりとも.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.