Processing keyword: Noun は おろか～すら (Noun wa oroka ～sura)

Japanese Grammar Point: Noun は おろか～すら (Noun wa oroka ～sura)

Noun は おろか～すら (Noun wa oroka ～sura)

1. Introduction

The grammar structure "Noun は おろか～すら" is used to express the idea that not only something is true, but it also emphasizes that even the most basic or minimal things are not included. It translates roughly to "let alone" or "not to mention" in English.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Noun は おろか: This part is used to introduce a subject with an emphasis on the fact that the subject is so extreme that it’s surprising or stark in contrast to what follows.
• ～すら: This is a more emphatic particle that underscores the exclusion of even the least expected items from a list. It often carries a sense of disbelief or astonishment.

Structure

• Format:

  [Noun] は おろか [phrase] すら [verb/adjective]
  

Meaning and Formation Diagram

• The phrase indicates that if a particular noun is true, then anything less than that (or even basic items) can be assumed to be false or non-applicable.

Diagram

3. Comparative Analysis

This structure is similar to "Noun は もとより" (Noun wa moto yori), which means "not to mention" but generally does not carry the same sense of incredulity or emphasis.

• Noun は もとより: More neutral; emphasizes something extra versus just what has been mentioned.
• Noun は おろか～すら: Stronger emphasis on what is not included or impacted, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal
   • 彼は日本語はおろか、英語すら話せない。
   • Kare wa Nihongo wa oroka, Eigo sura hanasenai.
   • (He can't even speak English, let alone Japanese.)
2. Informal
   • 昨日は昼ご飯はおろか、朝ご飯すら食べてないよ。
   • Kinō wa hirugohan wa oroka, asagohan sura tabetenai yo.
   • (I didn’t eat even breakfast yesterday, let alone lunch.)
3. Written
   • この問題は専門家はおろか、学生ですら解決できない。
   • Kono mondai wa senmonka wa oroka, gakusei desu ra kaiketsu dekinai.
   • (This issue cannot be solved, not only by experts but even by students.)
4. Spoken
   • お金がないから、旅行はおろか、映画すら見に行けない。
   • Okane ga nai kara, ryokō wa oroka, eiga sura mi ni ikenai.
   • (Because I have no money, I can't go on a trip, let alone watch a movie.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese culture, politeness and humility are significant social norms. The use of "おろか" expresses a certain level of humility by acknowledging one’s shortcomings or situations where one cannot meet basic expectations.

Idiomatic Expressions

A common phrase using "おろか" is:

• 彼は礼儀をおろか、挨拶すらしない。
• Kare wa reigi o oroka, aisatsu sura shinai.
• (He doesn’t even say hello, let alone have good manners.)

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Using "おろか" inappropriately: Learners often misuse this structure when the comparison does not emphasize extreme contrast.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember "おろか(Silly)" in "let alone" conveys disbelief or absurdity—think that the situation is so extreme it feels "silly."

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• "Noun は おろか～すら" emphasizes that not only is the stated noun true, but even the basic things are also excluded.
• Used to convey astonishment or disbelief regarding a situation.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Translate the following sentence: "彼女は仕事はおろか、家事すらしない。"
2. Differentiate between "おろか" and "もとより".
3. Provide an example sentence using "Noun は おろか～すら". Feel free to reflect on your answers and discuss them to deepen your understanding of this grammatical structure!