Processing keyword: Noun たりとも～ない (~tari tomo ~nai)

Japanese Grammar Point: Noun たりとも～ない (~tari tomo ~nai)

Grammar Point: Noun + たりとも～ない (~たりとも～ない)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese grammar pattern Noun + たりとも～ない. This expression is used to emphasize that not even the smallest amount or the least unit of something is acceptable or available. It's a strong way to express "not even", stressing the importance or strictness of a situation.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• Not even (the smallest amount of) Noun
• Not even a single Noun This pattern emphasizes that even the smallest unit is not allowed, not possible, or does not occur.

Structure

Noun + たりとも + Verb (negative form)

• Noun: Often a minimal unit, such as:
  • 一日 (いちにち): one day
  • 一秒 (いちびょう): one second
  • 一円 (いちえん): one yen
  • 一人 (ひとり): one person
• たりとも: Means "even"
• Verb (negative form): The verb in its negative form (～ない)

Formation Diagram

3. Comparative Analysis

This pattern is similar to:

• Noun + すら～ない: Even Noun does not...
• Noun + も～ない: Not even Noun... However, たりとも～ない is often used with minimal units and carries a stronger emphasis on absolutely none.

4. Examples in Context

Example 1 (Formal)

日本語 時間がありませんので、一分たりとも無駄にできません。 English Translation Since we don't have time, we can't waste even one minute.

Example 2 (Informal)

日本語 彼はその秘密を誰にたりとも教えなかった。 English Translation He didn't tell that secret to anyone.

Example 3 (Written)

日本語 その計画には一円たりとも余分な費用はない。 English Translation There's not even one yen of extra expense in that plan.

Example 4 (Spoken)

日本語 試合中は一瞬たりとも気を抜けない。 English Translation During the match, we can't lose focus even for a moment.

Example 5 (Polite)

日本語 ご質問があれば何なりたりともお申し付けください。 English Translation If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask anything at all.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese culture, attention to detail and thoroughness are highly valued. Using たりとも～ない underscores the importance of not overlooking even the smallest detail.

Levels of Politeness

• Polite/Formal: Used in formal writing or speeches to emphasize strictness or importance.
• Casual/Informal: Used among friends or in casual settings, though less common.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 一刻たりとも油断できない: Cannot let one's guard down even for a moment.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Incorrect Noun Usage: Using nouns that are not minimal units can sound unnatural. Incorrect: 彼は車たりとも買えない。 Correct: 彼は一台たりとも車を買えない。
• Forgetting the Negative Verb: The pattern requires the verb to be in negative form. Incorrect: 彼女は一日たりとも休みます。 Correct: 彼女は一日たりとも休みません。

Learning Strategies

• Focus on Minimal Units: Remember that たりとも pairs best with minimal or indivisible units.
• Pair with Negatives: Always use a negative verb form to complete the pattern.
• Mnemonic Device: Think of たり as "even" and とも as "also," reinforcing the idea of "not even also."

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• たりとも～ない emphasizes not even the smallest amount.
• Used with minimal units (e.g., 一秒、一円、一人).
• Structure: Noun + たりとも + Verb (negative form).

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank: ミスは**一つ______**許されない。 Answer: たりとも
2. True or False: たりとも～ない can be used without a negative verb. Answer: False (It must be used with a negative verb)
3. Translate to English: 彼は一瞬たりとも彼女のことを忘れたことがない。 Answer: He has never forgotten about her even for a moment.

By mastering Noun + たりとも～ない, you'll be able to express emphatic negation, adding depth and precision to your Japanese communication.