〜ぐらい
about (amount)
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜ぐらい” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜ぐらい」 means "about (amount)". Structure: Amount + ぐらい. This is a JLPT N5 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
At school
Example 1一時間ぐらい勉強をします。
いちじかんぐらいべんきょうをします。
ichijikanguraibenkyouoshimasu.
I do study for about an hour.
Everyday life
Example 2一時間ぐらい質問をします。
いちじかんぐらいしつもんをします。
ichijikanguraishitsumon'oshimasu.
I do question for about an hour.
Shopping & services
Example 3一時間ぐらい買い物をします。
いちじかんぐらいかいものをします。
ichijikanguraikaimonooshimasu.
I do shopping for about an hour.
Everyday life
Example 4一時間ぐらい洗濯をします。
いちじかんぐらいせんたくをします。
ichijikanguraisentakuoshimasu.
I do laundry for about an hour.
Everyday life
Example 5一時間ぐらい電話をします。
いちじかんぐらいでんわをします。
ichijikanguraidenwaoshimasu.
I do telephone call for about an hour.
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 do study for about an hour.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜ぐらい.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.