〜に至るまで
down to / up until ~
Show when one action happens in relation to another.
Remember it
Place two moments on a timeline and join them with 〜に至るまで.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜に至るまで」 means "down to / up until ~". Structure: Noun + に至るまで. 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
Use it for routines, status updates, sequences, and telling stories.
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細部に至るまで貯蔵を確認した。
さいぶ に いたる まで ちょぞう を かくにん した。
saibu ni itaru made chozou o kakunin shita.
We checked the storage down to the smallest detail.
Everyday life
Example 2細部に至るまで帳簿を確認した。
さいぶ に いたる まで ちょうぼ を かくにん した。
saibu ni itaru made choubo o kakunin shita.
We checked the account books down to the smallest detail.
Everyday life
Example 3細部に至るまで携帯を確認した。
さいぶ に いたる まで けいたい を かくにん した。
saibu ni itaru made keitai o kakunin shita.
We checked the carrying down to the smallest detail.
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 3
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
We checked the storage down to the smallest detail.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜に至るまで.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.