All JLPT N1 Grammar

JLPT grammar levels are community estimates, not official (no official lists have been published since the 2010 revision).

N1

〜ないわけにはいかないNeutralExpresses that one cannot avoid doing something: given social expectations, common sense, or the circumstances, not doing it is not an acceptable option, so one must do it. Literally, 'there is no way I can not do ~'.
〜にあたるWritten(1) Expresses equivalence or correspondence: X amounts to or corresponds to Y; (2) in the connective forms にあたり／にあたって, it means 'on the occasion of' or 'when undertaking' a significant event or undertaking.
〜に鑑みてWrittenIn light of; in view of. It introduces a circumstance or past event taken into careful account when making a decision or taking action.
〜に至ってWritten'Only when things reached the point of X (did ...)': marks an extreme or critical stage that is finally reached, after which a belated action or realization occurs. Often implies it should have happened sooner.
〜に則してFormalIn accordance with; in conformity with. Indicates that an action is carried out following an established rule, law, regulation, or norm.
〜やら〜やらNeutral(1) Lists a few representative items or actions, suggesting there are more and that the situation is hectic or troublesome; (2) Describes mixed or conflicting feelings experienced at the same time.
(で)すらWritten"Even": presents an extreme example to imply that the statement applies all the more to everything else. It often carries a sense of surprise or criticism.
あくまでもNeutral(1) Persistently, to the very end, emphasizing an unyielding stance or action; (2) Strictly, purely, merely, stressing that something is nothing more than what is stated.
あってのNeutralExpresses that B exists or works because A is there. A is indispensable to B, and B could not exist without A. It is used in the frame AあってのB, usually to acknowledge what something owes to A.
あらかじめWrittenAn adverb meaning 'in advance' or 'beforehand'. (1) It marks an action done ahead of time in preparation; (2) in formal notices and requests, it asks the reader to understand or accept something ahead of time.
いかなるWrittenA formal adnominal meaning "what kind of" or "any … whatsoever." It is (1) used with concessive endings for "no matter what N"; (2) used with も for "any/every N" (or "no N at all" with a negative); (3) used as a formal question word, "what kind of."
いかにWrittenA formal adverb meaning (1) 'no matter how', used with ても/でも in concessive clauses; (2) 'how, in what way', used with か to ask or discuss method; (3) 'how (very)', used with か to stress degree.
いかにもNeutral(1) Very much, every bit, just as one would expect: stresses how strongly someone or something matches a typical image or impression, usually paired with らしい, そうだ or ような; (2) as a reply, 'indeed' or 'quite so', affirming what the other person said.
いかんでは / いかんによってはWrittenDepending on N (its state, content or outcome). The following clause names one particular possible result, often an unwelcome or drastic one.
いかんによらずWrittenRegardless of how something turns out or what its state is. The preceding noun names something whose content or outcome can vary (weather, results, reasons), and the main clause states what stays the same no matter what.
いずれにせよWritten(1) In any case / at any rate: sets aside preceding details or uncertainty and moves to the main point or conclusion; (2) either way: after alternatives are listed, it states a judgment that holds whichever one proves true.
およそNeutral(1) Approximately, about: placed before a number or quantity to show it is an estimate; (2) Utterly, entirely: intensifies a negative or negative-meaning predicate (およそ～ない, およそ無駄).
かたがたFormal'While also…', 'partly by way of…'. It marks one purpose of an action that also serves another purpose. It is used in polite greetings, visits and letters.
かたわらWrittenIndicates that someone pursues a secondary activity alongside their main occupation or long-term activity: "while (mainly) doing A, also doing B on the side."
かつてWrittenAn adverb placing an event or state in the past, usually contrasting it with the present: (1) once, formerly, at one time; (2) as かつての + noun, 'former'; (3) with a negative (かつてない), 'never before, unprecedented'.
がてらNeutral"While doing X, also do Y" or "do Y, which doubles as X." It links two activities so that one outing or action serves two purposes at once.
からあるWrittenAttaches to a number and counter to stress that a quantity is large, meaning 'as many as', 'no less than' or 'upwards of'. It conveys the speaker's sense that the amount is impressive.
が最後WrittenOnce something happens, an unavoidable, usually undesirable result follows and the situation cannot be reversed. It stresses that the first action is the decisive point of no return.
が早いかWrittenExpresses that a second action happens the instant the first one occurs or is completed: 'no sooner had A than B', 'the moment A, B'. It is a literary expression and typically narrates actual events that already happened.
か否かWrittenMeans "whether or not." It turns a yes/no question into an embedded clause, usually the object or topic of verbs of deciding, checking or questioning. It is a formal, written equivalent of かどうか.
きってのWrittenMeans 'the most ~ in X' or 'X's foremost ~'. It ranks something as the top example within a group, organization, place or era, and is typically used to praise.
くらいならNeutral(1) Rather than do X: marks a course the speaker finds undesirable and presents a better alternative, often ending in ほうがいい or ほうがましだ; (2) with どうせ, 'if you are going to do X anyway': accepts X and recommends a better way of doing it.
くらいのものだNeutralLimits something to a low or narrow degree: (1) 'no more than X, merely X'; (2) 'at about the level where even X,' stressing how slight or simple something is; (3) 'X is about the only one/thing that…', which can also highlight how exceptional X is.
ぐるみNeutralAttached to a noun, it indicates that everything or everyone included in it is involved together. (1) The whole group (family, company, community) acting as one; (2) including something as it is, without removing it (e.g. 皮ぐるみ 'skin and all').
ごとき / ごとくWrittenA literary way of saying “like” or “as.” (1) Compares one thing to another: ごとき before a noun (“a ~-like …”), ごとく before a verb or adjective (“as if ~,” “as … as ~”); (2) Noun + ごとき can humbly or dismissively mean “the likes of ~.”
ことごとくWrittenAn adverb meaning 'every single one, without exception.' It stresses that all members of a group share the same outcome, most often a negative one such as failure or rejection.
こととてWrittenBecause; since. こととて presents a circumstance as a reason, often to explain a mistake or inconvenience and ask for understanding.
ことなしにWrittenFormal 'without doing X'. (1) Says that Y happens or is done without X taking place. (2) Most often, with a negative or impossibility main clause, says that Y cannot be achieved unless X is done.
さぞNeutralAn adverb expressing the speaker's empathetic guess that someone's feelings or situation must be very intense: "surely," "must have been (very)." It pairs with a conjecture ending such as だろう or でしょう.
さもWritten(1) “As if; as though,” emphasizing the impression someone’s behavior or speech creates, sometimes with a suggestion of pretense; (2) “very visibly,” emphasizing how strongly someone appears to feel with 〜そう.
さもないとNeutral"Otherwise" or "or else": a conjunction that opens a new sentence after advice or a command. It states the undesirable result that will follow if the advice is not taken: (1) a warning of a bad outcome; (2) a threat or ultimatum.
じみたNeutralAttached to a noun, it means "smacking of X" or "-ish": someone or something shows the qualities, air, or appearance of X. It is usually disapproving, suggesting the resemblance is unwelcome or out of place.
ずくめNeutralAttached to a noun, ずくめ means "entirely X" or "nothing but X": (1) dressed or covered completely in one color; (2) filled with one kind of thing or event from start to finish.
ずじまいNeutral(1) Something one intended, wanted, or had the chance to do ended up never being done; (2) something expected or anticipated ended up never happening. It looks back on a situation that is now over, often with regret or disappointment.
そばからNeutralExpresses that B happens right after A, typically again and again. (1) Most often B immediately undoes or wastes A, conveying frustration; (2) it can also describe B keeping pace with A, including welcome results (焼くそばから売れる, 'they sell as fast as they are baked').
たところでNeutralEven if (one does X), it will be pointless or will not bring the hoped-for result. (1) Even if X is done, the expected result will not follow; (2) even if X happens, the outcome amounts to very little.
だにWrittenA literary particle meaning 'even'. (1) With a negative, it stresses that not even the minimum happens ('not even ~'); (2) after a verb such as 考える or 聞く, it means that merely doing that is enough to cause a strong feeling.
ためしがないNeutralExpresses that something has never once happened, judging from the speaker's past experience. It often carries a critical or exasperated tone and serves as grounds for predicting that it won't happen this time either.
たら最後 / たが最後NeutralOnce X happens, a usually undesirable result follows that is hard or impossible to avoid. The first action is presented as a trigger after which the situation slips out of one's control. The result need not be permanent.
たりともWrittenEmphasizes a minimal quantity, 'not even one ~', stressing that absolutely none of something is allowed or possible. It is almost always followed by a negative or prohibitive expression.
たるもの / たるWrittenExpresses the standards or duties expected of someone because of the role, status or category they belong to. (1) N たるもの / たる者: anyone who is an N (should…); (2) N₁ たる N₂: an N₂ who is an N₁, with emphasis on that status.
た拍子にNeutral(1) "The moment / as a result of (doing) X": an action or movement triggers an unexpected, usually accidental outcome; (2) in the set phrase 何かの拍子に, "for some reason / by some chance".
ってばCasualA casual sentence-final particle expressing impatience or insistence. The speaker presses a point the listener has not accepted or acted on, often one already stated, much like "I said…!" or "I told you…!"
であれ / であろうとWrittenExpresses that the statement that follows holds regardless of what X is: (1) with a question word, "no matter who/what X is"; (2) with どんな + noun, "however X it may be"; (3) with a specific noun, "even if it is X."
てかなわないCasualExpresses that a state is so intense, usually unpleasant or troublesome, that the speaker can hardly bear it: "unbearably ~" or "so ~ I can't stand it." It is mainly used to complain about situations that annoy or wear on the speaker.
てからというものWrittenEver since (a certain event happened). It marks a past turning point after which a notable change or new state has continued up to now, often with strong feeling.
てしかるべきだWrittenExpresses that an action or state is only proper, fitting, or naturally expected under the circumstances. The speaker judges that it ought to happen as a matter of course.
でなくてなんだろうWrittenA rhetorical question meaning 'if this is not X, what else could it be?' The speaker emphatically asserts that something is truly X, often with strong emotion or admiration.
ではあるまいかWrittenExpresses the speaker's cautious conjecture or suspicion that something is probably the case: 'Isn't it perhaps that…?', 'I suspect that…'. It is a literary equivalent of ではないだろうか and leans toward the affirmative despite its negative form.
ではあるまいしCasual“It’s not as if X, so…” presents X as inapplicable and uses that premise to support a judgment, request, or explanation.
てもどうにもならないNeutralEven if one does X, it will not change or improve the situation. It states that an action such as regretting, apologizing or worrying is useless, typically because the outcome is already fixed or it is too late.
でも何でもないCasualEmphatically denies that someone or something is X or has a particular quality: “not X or anything of the sort.” It may be followed by a more ordinary description.
ても差し支えないFormalExpresses that doing something, or something being a certain way, is acceptable or causes no problem. It is a formal way of giving or asking permission, often used in business and official contexts.
とあってWrittenBecause of the special circumstance that ~; since it is ~. It presents a notable situation as the reason for what naturally follows, often an observed scene or public reaction.
とあればWritten“If it is (for) X, then…”: presents a special circumstance or reason that justifies doing something one would not normally do, usually followed by a statement of willingness or determination.
というか〜というかNeutralOffers two alternative descriptions of the same thing when neither alone quite fits: 'whether you call it A or B', 'A, or maybe B'. It usually leads into a summarizing conclusion, which may be tentative or quite emphatic.
というところだ / といったところだNeutralGives a rough estimate or summary: 'about', 'roughly', 'more or less'. It often carries a light sense of 'that's about the size of it.' (1) An approximate figure or quantity; (2) a rough summary of a state or stage reached.
というものWrittenAttached to a length of time, it emphasizes that throughout that whole period, which the speaker feels was long, a certain action or state continued without a break.
というわけだNeutralPresents a statement as the logical conclusion of, or explanation for, what came before: (1) "so that means…/that's why…" when drawing a conclusion from stated facts; (2) "that's how it happened" when summing up an account of circumstances.
というわけではないNeutralA partial negation that denies an assumption or inference: (1) "it's not that ~", rejecting one interpretation of the situation; (2) "it doesn't necessarily follow that ~", often with 必ず or いつも.
といえどもWrittenEven though / even if X: it grants that X is true or assumed, then says the expected consequence does not follow. (1) Even a notable or exceptional X; (2) no matter how X, with どんなに／いかに／たとえ; (3) even a minimal amount (一日, 一円).
といったらないNeutralExpresses that the degree of something is so extreme it cannot be put into words: "incredibly ~," "indescribably ~." It conveys the speaker's strong emotional reaction and can be used for both positive and negative qualities.
ときたらCasualTopic marker that spotlights a person or thing the speaker feels strongly about. It is usually followed by exasperated criticism, roughly "as for X (ugh)…" or "don't get me started on X": (1) complaining about a person; (2) complaining about a familiar situation; (3) less commonly, setting up emphatic praise.
ときているCasualPresents a trait or circumstance as a striking fact, usually as the reason for the speaker's judgment. It often stacks one more feature onto another, like "and on top of that, X is…"
とされるWrittenPresents something as a generally accepted, official, or scholarly view rather than the speaker's own opinion: 'is considered / regarded as', 'is said / believed to'. Common in formal writing, reports, and explanations of facts or history.
としたって / としたところでCasual(1) After a noun: "even X" or "X too", presenting X as no exception, often from X's own standpoint. (2) After a clause: "even if / even supposing …". としたところで usually implies that the supposed action would make no difference; としたって is the everyday equivalent of としても and carries no such implication by itself.
とっさにNeutralInstantly and reflexively, with no time to think. It describes an action someone takes on the spur of the moment in response to something sudden or unexpected.
とてWritten(1) After a noun, 'even X': X is included in a general claim, though one might expect it to be an exception. (2) After a verb or adjective (most often in た形), 'even if': the action or state makes no difference to the outcome. Literary in tone.
とはWrittenExpresses surprise, shock, or deep emotion at an unexpected fact: 'to think that…!', 'I never imagined that…'. (1) The fact is followed by a clause of surprise such as 思わなかった; (2) the sentence ends at とは, leaving the reaction unsaid.
とはいうもののWrittenConcessive "although X is admittedly true": the speaker accepts X, then states a reality or judgment that runs contrary to what X would suggest. (1) After a clause: "although X, Y"; (2) at the start of a sentence as a conjunction: "that said" or "even so."
とはいえWrittenAlthough X (is true), still Y; it accepts X as fact, then adds a qualification or a result that goes against what X would lead one to expect. It can also open a sentence as a conjunction meaning 'that said'.
とばかりにWritten“As if to say ~.” A person’s action conveys the message expressed by the quoted words, without necessarily saying them.
ともすればWrittenAn adverb meaning 'be apt to' or 'all too easily'. It signals that someone or something naturally tends to slip into an undesirable state or action.
ともなくWrittenExpresses doing something vaguely or without clear intention. (1) With the same verb repeated, it means doing something absentmindedly, without really meaning to; (2) with a question word, it means with no particular destination, target, time, or source in mind.
ともなると / ともなればNeutralOnce a certain notable stage, status, time, or level is reached, a matching situation naturally follows: 'when it comes to X', 'once one becomes X'. (1) a particular time or event arriving; (2) reaching a certain rank or level.
とりわけWrittenAn adverb meaning 'especially,' 'above all,' or 'in particular.' It singles out one item from a larger group or general statement as the most notable.
と思いきやWrittenMarks an assumption the speaker held and shows that the actual outcome turned out contrary to it. It means "I thought …, but in fact …" and introduces a surprising result.
と相まってWrittenMeans "combined with" or "coupled with." It shows that one factor works together with another to produce a result, often a stronger or more marked one than either would cause alone.
ないではおかない / ずにはおかないWritten(1) Expresses a firm resolve to do something without fail, not letting a matter pass; (2) states that something inevitably provokes a feeling or reaction, often with causative verbs; (3) in the literary variant ずにはおかれない, means 'cannot help doing'.
ないではすまない / ずにはすまないWrittenExpresses that one cannot get away without doing something: (1) the situation or one's responsibility makes the action unavoidable; (2) social or moral norms demand the action, such as apologizing, as a matter of course.
ないとも限らないWrittenExpresses that a possibility cannot be ruled out: "it is not impossible that…", "… might just happen". Often used to justify a precaution or to warn of an undesirable outcome.
ないまでもWrittenConcedes that a higher degree X is not reached, then asserts, hopes for, or demands a lesser degree Y: "even if not X, at least Y." (1) Used with a request or hope; (2) used to state a lesser result actually achieved.
ないものかWrittenExpresses a strong, often wistful wish that something difficult could somehow come true, or a search for some way to bring it about: "Isn't there some way to…?" or "If only I could…"
ないものでもないWrittenA hedged double negative meaning "it is not that I won't…" or "it is not impossible that…". It expresses (1) reluctant or conditional willingness to do something; (2) that a possibility cannot be entirely ruled out.
ながらに / ながらのWrittenExpresses that something remains in, or is accompanied by, a certain state: (1) while in a state of (e.g. in tears); (2) unchanged since, as it has always been. ながらに works adverbially and ながらの modifies a noun. It is used mainly with a limited set of set words.
なくしてWrittenMeans "without X, Y (is impossible)". It presents X as an indispensable condition. The clause that follows states a negative or impossible outcome.
なくしてはWrittenMeans "without X, Y cannot happen." It presents the noun X as an indispensable condition. The following clause states that the outcome is impossible, or would not have been possible, without X.
ならいざしらずWritten"X might be one thing, but…" The speaker sets aside X as a case that could be an exception or is not at issue, then states that the actual case is different. The second clause is often a negative or firm judgment, but it can also be a plain statement of fact.
ならではNeutralExpresses that something is unique to or characteristic of a particular person, place, or thing, something only X has or could produce. Usually used with positive evaluation.
なりWrittenExpresses that immediately after one action, the same person does a second, often sudden or unexpected action. Equivalent to “as soon as,” “the moment (that),” or “no sooner had … than.”
なり〜なりNeutral"A or B (or something like that)". It lists possible options as examples and suggests the listener choose one, typically in advice, instructions or suggestions about something still to be done.
なりともWritten(1) After an interrogative, it means 'any ~ at all' (何なりとも = anything whatsoever); (2) after a minimal quantity, it means 'even just ~' or 'at least ~', expressing a modest wish or request.
なりに / なりのNeutralExpresses doing something or having something in a way that fits the limits or nature of X: (1) なりに: 'in one's own way, as far as X allows'; (2) なりの: 'one's own, characteristic of X.' It acknowledges X's limitations while recognizing effort or individuality within them.
にあたらないWrittenSays that a reaction or evaluation is not warranted by the situation: (1) there is no reason to be surprised, upset or discouraged; (2) something does not deserve praise, blame or a similar judgment. Roughly "there is no need to ~" or "it does not deserve ~."
にあってWritten(1) In or under a particular situation or period, usually special or demanding, which shapes what follows; (2) in a particular position or role, with what is expected given that role; (3) even in such a situation (にあっても), with something that still holds.
にかかっているNeutralExpresses that an outcome, marked as the topic with は, depends on or hinges on a decisive factor marked with に: 'X depends on Y.'
にかたくないWrittenIt is not difficult to ~; one can readily ~. Used with a small set of words of imagining or inferring (想像, 察する, etc.) to say that a situation, outcome, or feeling is easy to picture or understand.
にしたってCasualCasual concessive meaning 'even if / even though / granted that'. (1) Even if X happens, the speaker's intention stays the same; (2) granted that X is true, Y should still hold, often as reproach; (3) after a noun, 'even X / X too', meaning X is no exception.
にしてWrittenA written pattern that spotlights a point, span or combination: (1) at a notable stage or age, often with ようやく or はじめて (only at X did…); (2) within a span presented as remarkably short (in just…); (3) being X and at the same time Y.
にたえる / にたえないWritten(1) にたえる: worth doing, or able to withstand something such as reading, viewing or criticism; (2) にたえない: too unpleasant or awful to bear doing; (3) にたえない with emotion nouns: to feel something extremely deeply (e.g. 感謝にたえない).
にとどまらずWrittenNot limited to X; going beyond X. It shows that something reaches past a certain range, area, or level and extends to a wider one, which the following clause states.
には及ばないFormalExpresses that there is no need to do something, often to reassure the listener that an action they are considering is unnecessary.
にまつわるWrittenConnected with or surrounding something. It links a noun to things that cling to it or are bound up with it: (1) stories, legends, or memories attached to it; (2) rumors, troubles, doubts, or mysteries surrounding it.
にもほどがあるCasual(1) Says that a quality or behavior goes beyond reasonable limits, often in criticism; (2) playfully treats a positive quality as astonishingly extreme.
にもましてWrittenEmphatically states that something goes beyond a point of comparison, whether an earlier state, the usual level, or something already notable: (1) with question words (何・誰・いつ), 'above all / more than anything (anyone, ever)'; (2) with a noun or それ, 'even more than X'.
によらずWrittenRegardless of; irrespective of. Indicates that a difference in the category named by the noun (gender, age, nationality, etc.) makes no difference to what follows. It is a formal, mainly written pattern.
に引き換えWrittenIn contrast to / as opposed to. It places two things side by side and stresses how strikingly different they are, often implying that one side compares favorably with the other.
に言わせればNeutral"If you ask X," "in X's opinion." It introduces a person whose frank, often critical opinion follows, frequently one that differs from the general view.
に限ったことではないWrittenStates that something is not unique to X and applies more widely: "it is not only X," "it is not limited to X." It most often ends a sentence, with the wider scope stated next, but the connective form ではなく can link to a following clause.
に至ってはWritten“As for X / When it comes to X.” Singles out the most extreme case among several of the same kind, usually to express surprise, criticism, or a negative judgment about it.
に至ってもWrittenEven when things have reached a certain extreme situation or stage, something still does not change. It is typically used to criticize or express surprise at a lack of response or progress.
に至る / に至ったWrittenExpresses that a situation finally reaches a certain result, state, or stage, usually after a long process or series of events: (1) ending up in an often serious or negative outcome; (2) finally arriving at a conclusion or agreement. Often translates as 'to come to', 'to lead to', or 'to end in'.
に至るまでWritten(1) Stresses that something extends all the way to, and includes, an extreme, minor, or unexpected item: 'even down to', 'all the way up to'; (2) marks the endpoint of a range in time or space: 'right up to'.
に照らしてWrittenIn light of; measured against. It uses a standard such as a law, rule, or past experience as a yardstick to compare with and judge something: (1) judging by a rule or norm; (2) judging by experience or known facts.
に先駆けてWritten(1) Ahead of others, being the first to do something before competitors or rivals; (2) prior to an event, doing something beforehand.
に則ってWrittenMeans “in accordance with” or “in conformity with.” It describes carrying out an action in keeping with an established rule or standard.
に即してWrittenIn accordance with, in line with. It indicates that an action or judgment conforms to something: (1) a rule or law; (2) actual facts or circumstances such as reality or the situation at hand.
に足りないWrittenSays that something does not merit a certain action or evaluation. (1) The matter is too minor to warrant a reaction (not worth ~ing). (2) The person or thing lacks the qualities needed to deserve it (not worthy of ~, e.g. 信頼に足りない).
に足る / に足りるWrittenIndicates that something is worth doing or has enough merit to justify an action, e.g. 'worthy of trust', 'worth watching'. It is typically used before a noun to describe a person or thing as deserving of that action.
に値するWrittenExpresses that something deserves or merits a certain action, evaluation, or reward, such as praise, respect, recommendation, attention, or an honor. It is mostly used for positive judgments of things, people, or deeds, though nouns like 非難 are also possible.
のなんのってCasualExpresses that something is so extreme it is hard to put into words, as in 'so ~ you wouldn't believe it.' It is typically followed by a clause describing the resulting situation or the speaker's reaction.
の極みWrittenIndicates that a feeling or state has reached its highest possible degree: "the height of ~," "the utmost ~." (1) the peak of an emotion or inner state; (2) an extreme state or quality, often in evaluative remarks.
の至りFormal(1) The utmost degree of a feeling or evaluation, used in formal expressions of gratitude, honor, humility or apology, and sometimes in judgments such as 愚の至り; (2) in the fixed expression 若気の至り, an act that resulted from youthful rashness.
はおろかWritten“Let alone X; not to mention X.” It treats X as a case where the statement obviously holds, then adds a more extreme case Y where it holds as well. It is most common in negative statements about an unfortunate situation, but positive statements are also possible.
ばこそWrittenPrecisely because; it is only because. Stresses that the stated reason is the real reason behind the main clause: (1) a sincere motive behind an action that may seem harsh or unexpected; (2) a condition that led to a present, usually good, result.
はさておきNeutralSetting X aside: the speaker deliberately puts one topic or factor out of the present discussion to focus on another that matters more now. It is used (1) to drop a side topic and move to the main point; (2) to set one factor aside and prioritize another.
ばそれまでだNeutral(1) If X happens, that is the end of it: everything achieved or done before becomes pointless or is lost; (2) If you put it as X, there is nothing more to say, often implying the matter deserves more thought.
びるWrittenAttaches to certain nouns and adjective stems to form a verb meaning 'to take on the air or qualities of X; to look or seem X' (e.g. 大人びる 'to seem grown-up', 古びる 'to look old/worn').
ぶりNeutralAttached to a length of time or a past event, ぶり means 'for the first time in (that period)' or 'for the first time since (that event)'. It marks something happening again after an interval in which it did not happen. The interval can be long or short, as in 5年ぶり or 5分ぶり.
ぶるNeutralAttached to a noun or adjective stem, ぶる means to make a showy, affected display of a quality or status, whether or not the person actually has it: (1) to put on airs about a status or quality one has; (2) to pose as a certain type of person. It is almost always critical.
べからずWrittenA classical-style prohibition meaning "must not" or "do not." It states firmly what is forbidden and typically appears on signs, notices, rules and proverbs.
べくWrittenExpresses purpose: "in order to do," "with the aim of doing." The preceding clause states a goal, and the following clause describes a deliberate action taken to achieve it.
べくしてWrittenExpresses that an outcome came about exactly as it was bound to, given its causes: (1) an undesirable event that was inevitable; (2) a good result that was naturally earned or deserved.
べくもないWrittenExpresses that something is utterly impossible, usually because of circumstances: one cannot even hope for, know, or compare it. It is used with a limited set of verbs such as 望む and 知る.
ほうがましだNeutralSays that X is the less bad of two undesirable options: 'X would be better' or 'I'd rather X.' The rejected alternative is often stated first with くらいなら or なら. The pattern can be used hyperbolically to reject that alternative strongly.
まじきWrittenExpresses that an action is utterly inappropriate or unforgivable given someone's position or status. It means 'should not be done' or 'unbecoming of.' It is the attributive form of the classical auxiliary まじ, so it always modifies a following noun such as 行為, 発言 or 態度.
までだNeutral(1) Expresses calm resolve: if things don't work out, one will simply take the remaining course of action, meaning "I'll just…" or "there's nothing for it but to…"; (2) after a past-tense verb, it means one merely did something, with no deeper intention.
までもないNeutralSays an action is unnecessary because the situation does not call for going that far, either because the matter is already obvious or because the action would be excessive or not worth the effort. (1) there's no need even to do ~; (2) in the set phrase 言うまでもない, 'it goes without saying'.
まみれNeutral(1) Attached to a noun, it means "covered all over with" a substance, usually something unpleasant such as mud, blood, sweat, or dust; (2) figuratively, it means being steeped in or burdened by something, typically negative, such as debt or scandal.
まるっきりCasualAn emphatic adverb meaning 'completely' or 'entirely'. (1) With a negative, it means 'not at all'; (2) before a noun with の, or with a positive predicate, it means 'utterly' or 'a complete ~'.
めくWrittenAttached to a noun, めく forms a verb meaning 'to show signs of' or 'to take on the air of' something: (1) the signs or feel of a season appearing; (2) having a hint of some quality, resembling it without fully being it.
もさることながらWrittenAcknowledges X as noteworthy and then adds Y, usually with more emphasis on Y: 'X, of course, but also / even more so Y.'
もしくはWrittenA formal conjunction meaning "or" that presents two or more alternatives, any one of which is acceptable or applies. It is typical of official documents, notices, and instructions.
もしないでNeutralMeans "without even doing X": the speaker stresses that a basic or expected action was skipped. It usually criticizes someone or expresses regret, but it can also convey surprise or admiration that something was achieved without that step.
ものでNeutralGives a reason or circumstance, usually as a personal excuse or apologetic explanation for an undesirable result: 'because, since, the thing is…'. It is often used when apologizing for or justifying one's own actions.
ものとしてWrittenMeans 'on the assumption that' or 'treating it as though'. (1) A situation is officially deemed to be the case, whether or not it actually is; (2) someone acts or prepares on the premise that something will be so.
ものと思われるWrittenExpresses the writer's or speaker's cautious, objective-sounding presumption: 'it is thought/presumed that…'. It presents a personal judgment impersonally, (1) predicting a likely outcome or state; (2) interpreting the cause or intention behind something.
ものをWrittenExpresses regret or reproach that a better or easier course of action was available but not taken, so things turned out badly: "when (one) could simply have…, yet…" or "if only…." It typically follows 〜ばいい／〜ばよかった, and the regrettable outcome may be stated or left implied.
もはやWrittenAn adverb marking that a situation has passed a certain point and is now different from before: (1) 'no longer, not anymore', with negative predicates; (2) 'already, by now', stating that something has reached a certain stage.
も顧みず / を顧みずWrittenDoing something without regard for a risk, sacrifice, or objection that would normally hold one back: (1) disregarding danger or cost to oneself; (2) disregarding others' opposition or concerns. も adds the nuance "even".
やしないCasualA colloquial, emphatic negative meaning "(someone) won't/can't possibly". It flatly denies that an action will happen or is possible, often with a tone of contempt, frustration or exasperation.
や否やWrittenAs soon as; the moment (that). It describes a second event happening immediately after the first, with almost no gap in time.
ゆえにWrittenA formal, literary expression of cause. (1) After a clause or noun: 'because of, owing to', stating a reason from which the result follows. (2) At the start of a sentence: 'therefore, hence', as in logical argument.
をいいことにNeutralTaking advantage of a convenient situation, such as someone's absence, weakness, or leniency, as an opportunity to do something. The following action is usually selfish or improper and viewed critically, though the pattern can occasionally describe harmless use of an opportunity.
をおいてWrittenSingles out a person or thing as the only suitable candidate for a particular role: no one or nothing else will do.
をもって /をもちましてFormal(1) Marks a point in time at which something ends or takes effect: "as of, with (today, etc.)"; (2) marks the means, basis, or support by which something is accomplished: "by means of, with, thanks to". をもちまして is the more polite form.
をものともせずWrittenUndaunted by or in defiance of: the subject bravely overcomes a serious difficulty, danger, or opposition as if it were nothing and goes ahead with an action. It is typically used to praise someone else's courage or determination.
をよそにWrittenMeans "disregarding" or "paying no heed to" something such as others' objections, worries, expectations or warnings. The subject goes ahead with an action as if that thing did not concern them.
を押してWrittenDespite a known obstacle, such as others' opposition, illness, or old age, the subject deliberately pushes through it and goes ahead with an action. Senses: (1) acting despite others' opposition; (2) forcing oneself to act despite a personal hardship.
を機にWrittenTaking an event as an occasion or turning point to begin something new or make a change. The following clause usually describes a deliberate action or decision prompted by that event.
を禁じ得ないWrittenExpresses that a strong emotion wells up in response to a situation and cannot be suppressed; 'cannot help feeling ~', 'cannot hold back ~'. It follows a noun denoting a feeling such as tears, anger, sympathy, or emotion.
を経てWritten(1) After going through a period, experience, or process (having passed through ~); (2) By way of a place or intermediary on the route to a destination (via ~). It marks the stage passed through before the main outcome.
を兼ねてNeutralIndicates that one action or event also serves as another, so that two purposes or functions are combined in a single occasion: 'also serving as', 'doubling as', 'combined with'.
を限りにWritten(1) Marks a point in time or a final occasion as the last time something that has continued until then takes place: "as of ~, … will end." (2) In the fixed phrase 声を限りに, it means "at the top of one's voice."
を前提としてWrittenMeans "on the premise of X" or "assuming X": (1) taking X as a precondition or requirement and acting on it; (2) assuming X will hold, often something not yet realized, and planning around it.
を踏まえてWrittenTaking something already established, such as facts, results, trends, or earlier discussion, as the premise or foundation for a next action or judgment. Roughly 'building on', 'in light of', 'with ~ in mind'.
を皮切りにWrittenStarting with X; with X as the starting point. It marks the event that opens a series of subsequent events, which then follow one after another or spread out.
を余儀なくされるWrittenExpresses that someone is forced by circumstances beyond their control to do something, usually something undesirable. It means "be compelled to ~" or "have no choice but to ~" and takes a noun describing the action.
んがためWrittenExpresses a strong purpose: 'in order to ~', 'for the sake of ~'. It emphasizes a firm determination to achieve a goal. The expression is literary and old-fashioned.
んばかりにWrittenDescribes a manner so extreme that an action seems about to happen: "as if about to ~" or "almost ~ing." (1) Someone looks on the verge of actually doing something; (2) with 言う, someone's behavior all but says something outright ("as if to say ~").
案の定NeutralJust as expected; sure enough. Marks an outcome that matches what the speaker had predicted or feared, most often an unfavorable one.
羽目になるNeutralExpresses ending up in an unpleasant or undesirable situation, often because of one's own actions or bad luck, and conveys regret or dismay about the outcome. Typically translated as 'end up (having to) do ~'.
何しろNeutralAn adverb meaning "after all", "anyway" or "you see". It puts strong emphasis on a reason or circumstance that the speaker treats as decisive and overriding. It usually introduces a cause, and the clause is typically closed with から or ので.
可能性があるNeutralExpresses that something may happen or may be the case: "there is a possibility that…". It states likelihood fairly objectively and can describe both desirable and undesirable outcomes.
極まる・極まりないWrittenExpresses that a quality is present to the utmost degree: 'extremely', 'utterly'. It is used mostly for strong, usually negative, evaluations. Despite the ない, 極まりない is not a negation and means the same as 極まる.
嫌いがあるWrittenExpresses that a person or thing has an undesirable tendency or inclination to do something or be a certain way. It is used to point out a habitual negative trait, often critically.
限りだWrittenExpresses the speaker's own feeling at its most intense: "extremely ~, as ~ as can be." It follows emotion adjectives such as 寂しい or 残念.
始末だNeutralDescribes a bad outcome reached after a series of unfavorable events or behavior, usually with a critical or exasperated tone: "it has come to the point that…, and now…". It typically ends the sentence and presents the final result as deplorable.
思いをするNeutralDescribes experiencing a particular feeling because of a situation, often an unpleasant one. The feeling is named before 思い.
折にFormalOn the occasion of; when (a chance arises). A formal, courteous way to refer to a particular occasion, such as a visit, at which something is done or hoped to be done.

N1

Say it right, write it right