Processing keyword: ～はまだしも (〜wa mada shimo)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～はまだしも (〜wa mada shimo)

Grammar Point: ～はまだしも (〜wa mada shimo)

1. Introduction

The expression ～はまだしも (〜wa mada shimo) is used to indicate that something is acceptable, tolerable, or understandable; however, a more extreme or less favorable scenario is being referenced to emphasize the point. This grammar point implies a sense of contrast, usually suggesting that while one situation may be tolerable, another situation should certainly not be.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The phrase suggests that one condition is acceptable, but another related condition is considered too much or unacceptable.
• Structure: The structure is as follows:
  • [noun/verb/adjective] + はまだしも
• Formation Diagram:

  [Condition 1] はまだしも [Condition 2]
  

  Here, Condition 1 is the scenario you find acceptable or tolerable, while Condition 2 is the more extreme scenario.

Visual Aids

3. Comparative Analysis

• Similar Grammar:

  • 〜はおろか (〜wa oroka): This indicates that something is even less tolerable than another example, often used to emphasize the impossibility of the mentioned condition.
    • Example: 彼は勉強はおろか、宿題すらしていない。
      • (He doesn’t even do his homework, let alone study.)

• Differences:

  • While ～はまだしも suggests a level of acceptability for the first condition, 〜はおろか signifies that even the simplest task (like homework) is not done, highlighting a greater deficiency.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:

   • 会議に彼が来るのはまだしも、時間どおりに来てくれなければ困ります。
   • (It's acceptable for him to come to the meeting, but if he can't arrive on time, it would be a problem.)

2. Informal:

   • 友達が来るのはまだしも、彼女が遅れるのはやめてほしい。
   • (It's okay if my friend comes over, but I don't want her to be late.)

3. Written:

   • 毎日運動することはまだしも、週に一度はジムに行くべきだ。
   • (While exercising every day may be too much, you should at least go to the gym once a week.)

4. Spoken:

   • あの映画はまだしも、あの俳優の演技はちょっと…。
   • (That movie is okay, but the actor's performance is a bit much...)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Levels of Politeness: The use of ～はまだしも varies depending on the context; it can be used in both formal and informal settings, but be mindful of your tone and choice of words in formal situations.
• Social Norms: This phrase can reflect the Japanese cultural value of “maintaining harmony.” Criticizing a situation is often approached gently, and using this expression can convey dissatisfaction without sounding overly harsh.

Idiomatic Expressions

• It is not widely used in set phrases, but can often appear in discussions about expectations and standards.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Frequent Errors:
  • Misusing the phrase where one cannot make a direct connection to the conditions being compared.
  • Failing to recognize that what follows should be more extreme or unacceptable than the first condition.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of “Mada shimo” as “more is so” which implies that everything beyond the first condition should definitely be avoided if you’re using this phrase correctly.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ～はまだしも expresses a level of tolerance for one situation contrasted with another, less acceptable scenario.
• Use it in both formal and informal contexts to soften criticism while making a clear point.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ～はまだしも imply about the two scenarios compared?
2. How does the use of this expression vary in formal and informal settings?
3. Compare ～はまだしも and ～はおろか. What’s a key difference? By understanding and applying the nuances of ～はまだしも, learners can express their opinions on acceptable behaviors and expectations within various contexts more effectively.