Processing keyword: ～はもとより (〜wa moto yori〜mo)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～はもとより (〜wa moto yori〜mo)

～はもとより (〜wa moto yori〜mo)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ～はもとより (〜wa moto yori) is a Japanese expression used to emphasize that something is obvious or a given, and additionally, something else also applies. It's similar to saying "not only... but also..." or "let alone..." in English.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• ～はもとより: Not only... but also..., Let alone..., Of course... and also...

Structure

The pattern is used with nouns:

Noun A + はもとより + Noun B + も

Formation Diagram

Detailed Explanation

• Emphasis on the Obvious: はもとより highlights that Noun A is obvious or a given fact.
• Addition of More Information: It adds that Noun B also shares a similar quality or condition.
• Formal Usage: This expression is commonly used in formal writing or speeches.

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

Differences and Nuances

• ～はもとより vs. ～はもちろん:
  • ～はもとより is slightly more formal and emphasizes the obviousness of Noun A.
  • ～はもちろん is more commonly used in everyday conversation.
• ～はもとより vs. ～ばかりか:
  • ～ばかりか can be used with verbs and adjectives, not just nouns.
  • ～はもとより is limited to nouns.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. 健康のためには、運動はもとより、食生活にも気をつけてください。 For your health, please pay attention not only to exercise but also to your diet.
2. この映画は、日本ではもとより、海外でも高い評価を得ている。 This movie has received high praise not only in Japan but also overseas.
3. 結果はもとより、その過程も重要だ。 Not only the result but also the process is important.
4. 彼女は、平日はもとより、週末も仕事をしている。 She works not only on weekdays but also on weekends.
5. 今回のプロジェクトは、時間はもとより、予算も不足している。 This project lacks not only time but also budget.

Context Variations

• Formal Written: Commonly used in essays, reports, and formal speeches.
• Spoken Language: Rare in casual conversation; ～はもちろん is preferred.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese communication, it's common to acknowledge what's generally accepted or obvious before introducing additional or surprising information. This approach reflects the cultural value placed on harmony and shared understanding.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• Formal Expression: ～はもとより is formal and polite, suitable for formal writing and speeches.
• Avoid in Casual Talk: In everyday conversation, using this expression might sound overly formal.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 言うまでもなく (いうまでもなく): It goes without saying...
  • Similar in meaning and often used interchangeably in formal contexts.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Using with Verbs Incorrectly
   • Incorrect: 彼は走るはもとより、泳ぐも得意だ。
   • Correct: 彼は走ることはもとより、泳ぐことも得意だ。 Tip: Nominalize verbs using こと to use them with ～はもとより.
2. Using in Informal Contexts
   • Overusing ～はもとより in casual conversation can make the speech sound stiff. Tip: Use ～はもちろん for a more natural, casual alternative.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Associate もとより with "元より", meaning from the origin, to remember that it refers to something that is originally or obviously so.
• Practice Nominalization: Get comfortable with turning verbs into nouns using こと to expand the types of words you can use with ～はもとより.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Usage: ～はもとより emphasizes that Noun A is obvious, and Noun B also shares the same quality.
• Formality: It's a formal expression best suited for written language or formal speech.
• Structure: Use with nouns, and nominalize verbs when necessary.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Translate the following sentence using ～はもとより: "Not only children but also adults enjoyed the festival."
2. True or False: ～はもとより can be used with adjectives without any changes.
3. Fill in the blank: 彼は日本語はもとより、__________も話せる。 (He can speak not only Japanese but also ________.)

Answers

1. 子供はもとより、大人も祭りを楽しんだ。
2. False: Adjectives need to be nominalized to use with ～はもとより.
3. 英語 (English)