〜さえ
even ~
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜さえ” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜さえ」 means "even ~". Structure: Noun + さえ. 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修理さえあれば、大丈夫です。
しゅうり さえ あれば、だいじょうぶ です。
shuuri sae areba, daijoubu desu.
As long as there is a repair, it will be fine.
At work
Example 2資料さえあれば、大丈夫です。
しりょう さえ あれば、だいじょうぶ です。
shiryou sae areba, daijoubu desu.
As long as there is a materials, it will be fine.
Everyday life
Example 3機械さえあれば、大丈夫です。
きかい さえ あれば、だいじょうぶ です。
kikai sae areba, daijoubu desu.
As long as there is a machine, it will be fine.
Everyday life
Example 4材料さえあれば、大丈夫です。
ざいりょう さえ あれば、だいじょうぶ です。
zairyou sae areba, daijoubu desu.
As long as there is a ingredients, it will be fine.
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 4
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
As long as there is a repair, it will be fine.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜さえ.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.