Processing keyword: Noun こそすれ (~koso sure)

Japanese Grammar Point: Noun こそすれ (~koso sure)

Noun + こそすれ (~koso sure)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese grammar point Noun + こそすれ (~koso sure). This structure is used to emphasize that while one thing may occur, another thing certainly does not. It's a nuanced expression that adds depth to your Japanese, especially in formal contexts.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

Noun + こそすれ is used to express that the action or state represented by the noun may occur, but the following action or state definitely does not. It's often translated as:

• "may (do) ... but certainly not ..."
• "only ... and certainly not ..."
• "would ... but would never ..."

Structure

The formation of this grammar point is straightforward:

Formation Diagram

[ Noun ] + こそすれ + [ Negative Verb Phrase ]

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• Noun + こそあれ: Used to acknowledge a certain negative state but imply that something positive still exists.
  • Example: 苦労こそあれ、やりがいのある仕事だ。
    "Though there's hardship, it's a rewarding job."
• Verb stem + こそすれ: Similar structure used with verbs instead of nouns.
  • Example: 信頼しこそすれ、疑うことなどしない。
    "I would trust you, not doubt you." Difference: While こそあれ acknowledges a negative aspect before presenting a positive one, こそすれ emphasizes that while one thing may happen, another absolutely does not.

4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. Formal Written
   • 親は子供の幸せを願いこそすれ、悪いことを望むはずがない。
     Parents may wish for their children's happiness, but they would never hope for something bad.
2. Formal Spoken
   • この製品は質が高くて、値段が上がりこそすれ、下がることはないでしょう。
     The quality of this product is high; its price may increase but will certainly not decrease.
3. Informal Written
   • 彼は遅れこそすれ、来ないことはないと思う。
     He might be late, but I think he will definitely come.
4. Informal Spoken
   • 君が失敗を恐れこそすれ、挑戦しないなんてありえないよ。
     You might fear failure, but there's no way you won't take on the challenge.

Breakdown of Example 1

• 親は子供の幸せを願いこそすれ、悪いことを望むはずがない。
  • 親は: Parents
  • 子供の幸せを願い: Wish for their children's happiness
  • こそすれ: May (do), but certainly not
  • 悪いことを望むはずがない: Would never hope for something bad

5. Cultural Notes

Levels of Politeness

• こそすれ is considered a formal expression.
• Commonly used in written Japanese, formal speeches, and polite conversations.
• Adds emphasis and a nuanced contrast between two actions or states.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 感謝こそすれ、迷惑だなんて思っていません。
  I can only feel grateful; I certainly don't consider it a bother.
  • Used to politely refute someone's concern about causing trouble.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Using with the Wrong Verb Form
   • Incorrect: 親は子供の幸せを願ってこそすれ...
   • Correct: 親は子供の幸せを願いこそすれ... Tip: Use the noun form directly before こそすれ.
2. Misunderstanding the Emphasis
   • Mistaking it for simply contrasting two actions without the emphasis on certainty.

Tips

• Mnemonic Device: Think of こそ as "indeed" and すれども (though), shortened to emphasize "indeed this may happen, but...".
• Remember: The action before こそすれ is possible or may happen, but the action after is impossible or unthinkable.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Noun + こそすれ emphasizes that while one thing may occur, another certainly does not.
• It is a formal expression used to contrast two actions or states.
• Commonly used in writing and formal speech to add emphasis.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What is the primary function of Noun + こそすれ? a) To list sequential actions
   b) To emphasize that one action may occur, but another certainly does not
   c) To compare two similar actions
2. Is こそすれ typically used in formal or informal contexts?
3. Fill in the blank: 彼は______こそすれ、嘘をつくことはない。

Answers

1. b) To emphasize that one action may occur, but another certainly does not.
2. It is typically used in formal contexts.
3. 彼は 失敗 こそすれ、嘘をつくことはない。
   He may fail, but he would never tell a lie.