〜こそ
precisely / indeed
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜こそ” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜こそ」 means "precisely / indeed". Structure: Noun + こそ. This is a JLPT N3 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成功こそ成功の鍵です。
せいこう こそ せいこう の かぎ です。
seikou koso seikou no kagi desu.
The success is precisely the key to success.
Everyday life
Example 2安心こそ成功の鍵です。
あんしん こそ せいこう の かぎ です。
anshin koso seikou no kagi desu.
The relief is precisely the key to success.
Everyday life
Example 3原因こそ成功の鍵です。
げんいん こそ せいこう の かぎ です。
gen'in koso seikou no kagi desu.
The cause is precisely the key to success.
Everyday life
Example 4能力こそ成功の鍵です。
のうりょく こそ せいこう の かぎ です。
nouryoku koso seikou no kagi desu.
The ability is precisely the key to success.
Everyday life
Example 5態度こそ成功の鍵です。
たいど こそ せいこう の かぎ です。
taido koso seikou no kagi desu.
The attitude is precisely the key to success.
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
The success is precisely the key to success.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜こそ.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.