All JLPT N2 Grammar

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

N2

〜から見ればNeutral(1) From the viewpoint of X: introduces the person, group, or perspective whose view frames the evaluation in the main clause; (2) Judging from X: introduces observable evidence or circumstances, such as someone's attitude or a situation, on which the speaker bases a judgment.
〜てさえいればNeutral"As long as (one) is/does ~", "if only ~". It marks a continuing state or action as the one condition needed for the result in the main clause, implying nothing else matters.
〜としてのNeutralAttributive form of として, meaning "as (a) ~" or "in the capacity of ~." It links a role, status or identity to a following noun, describing something that belongs to or comes with that role (e.g. position, responsibility, pride).
〜なくもないNeutralA double negative ('it is not that … not') that gives a weak, hedged affirmation: (1) reluctant or partial willingness or agreement; (2) a possibility that cannot be completely ruled out.
〜につけ〜につけWrittenWhether A or B: pairs two contrasting or related items to say that the same thing holds, or the same result follows, in either case.
〜につけてもWritten(1) Whenever one sees, hears, or thinks of something, a feeling or memory naturally comes to mind; (2) in the set phrases 何事につけても / 何かにつけても, 'in everything' or 'at every opportunity'.
〜に向けてNeutralExpresses directing effort or preparation toward a goal or upcoming event: 'toward', 'in preparation for', 'with ... in view'. (1) working toward a goal or event; (2) aimed at a target or audience; (3) with verbs of departure, the destination one sets out for.
〜に先立ってWrittenMeans 'prior to' or 'in advance of' an event or action. It introduces something done or held beforehand, often as preparation for a significant or formal occasion.
〜ば〜ほどNeutralExpresses proportional correlation: 'the more X, the more (or less) Y'. As the degree of the first condition increases, the result changes accordingly.
〜わりにはNeutralExpresses that a result differs from what you would normally expect given the degree or nature of something: 'considering ~', 'for ~'. The outcome can be better or worse than expected.
〜次第ではNeutralMeans 'depending on X' and highlights one particular outcome, often serious or unwelcome, that could result from how X turns out. The main clause usually expresses possibility.
あげくNeutralSays that something finally happened after a long, trying, or troublesome process: (1) the end result, often disappointing or undesirable; (2) after much worrying or agonizing, the decision or action someone finally took.
あるいはWrittenA formal conjunction meaning 'or' that presents alternatives between nouns, phrases, or clauses. (1) or, offering a choice between options; (2) or, presenting alternative possibilities; (3) perhaps, possibly, used adverbially with a conjectural ending.
いきなりNeutralAn adverb meaning 'suddenly, abruptly, without warning'. It describes an action or event that happens all at once, with no lead-up or preparation, and often implies surprise.
いよいよNeutral(1) At last, finally: marks that a long-anticipated moment or event has arrived or is about to arrive; (2) More and more, increasingly: shows that a state is intensifying.
いわゆるNeutralPlaced before a noun to mark it as the label people commonly use, like English 'so-called' or 'what is known as'. It introduces a familiar term or expression rather than the speaker's own wording.
おまけにCasualおまけに adds another point that reinforces what has just been said: “on top of that” or “what’s more.” It often adds another unwelcome circumstance, giving the sense “to make matters worse.”
かえってNeutralかえって means “on the contrary” or “instead” when an action or situation produces a result opposite to what was expected, often an unwelcome one.
かと思ったら / かと思うとNeutralExpresses that a second event happened immediately after the first, often unexpectedly or in contrast to it: 'no sooner had … than …', 'just when (I noticed) …, …'. The speaker describes a sudden change they observed.
かねないNeutralExpresses the speaker's concern that something undesirable could happen, often as the result of a current situation or action: "could well ~", "there is a risk that ~".
かねるFormal(1) Cannot do something, though one might wish to, because of one's position or circumstances; often a polite, indirect refusal in business and customer service. (2) Find it hard to bring oneself to do something; to hesitate or struggle over it (e.g. 決めかねる 'unable to decide').
からこそNeutralEmphasizes a reason as the key or decisive one: 'precisely because ~.' (1) Singles out a reason as the one that truly matters; (2) justifies an action or situation by a reason the listener may not expect.
からしてNeutral(1) Judging from X: cites a noun as the evidence for a conclusion or inference; (2) Starting with X, even X: gives one typical example to suggest that everything else is the same, usually with a critical tone.
からすると / からすればNeutral(1) Judging from X: marks the evidence or basis for the speaker's judgment or guess; (2) from the standpoint of X: presents how things look from a particular person's or group's position.
からといってNeutral"Just because X, it doesn't follow that Y." It rejects a conclusion that might seem to follow from a reason: (1) denying an assumed consequence; (2) partially negating a generalization; (3) introducing a prohibition or negative judgment.
からにはNeutral"Since / now that X (is the case)": given a decision, commitment, or situation X, the speaker concludes that Y naturally follows. Y is typically an obligation, resolve, request, or strong judgment.
から見るとNeutralJudging from / from the viewpoint of: (1) marks evidence the speaker uses to draw a conclusion; (2) marks the standpoint or perspective from which something is evaluated.
から言うとNeutralJudging from X, or speaking from the standpoint of X. It introduces the viewpoint, position, or criterion that a judgment or opinion is based on.
くせしてCasualMeans "even though (someone) is/does X, and yet...". The speaker criticizes, blames, or looks down on someone whose behavior doesn't fit a known fact or their status. It is a colloquial variant of くせに.
げWrittenAttached to adjective stems, some nouns and the たい form, げ means that someone or something looks or seems a certain way, judging from appearance, expression or manner: (1) seeming (happy, uneasy, promising, etc.); (2) with たい, looking as if one wants to do something.
ことからWrittenMeans "from the fact that" or "because of the fact that." It presents an objective fact as grounds: (1) the origin of a name; (2) the basis for a judgment, decision, or outcome.
ことだからNeutral“Knowing X,” “since it's X we're talking about.” The speaker bases a judgment or guess on the known character or habits of a person or group, then states what they expect.
ことなくWrittenMeans "without doing V" or "without V happening." The main action continues or finishes while the stated action or event never occurs, often something that might have been expected.
ことにWrittenAttached to a word expressing emotion or evaluation, it introduces a fact by first stating how the speaker feels about it: "to my surprise…", "unfortunately…", "what is ~ is that…".
ことにはならないNeutralDenies that a conclusion follows from a stated premise: "that does not mean…" or "it does not follow that…". It is typically paired with a premise clause such as からといって.
ざるを得ないWrittenExpresses that the speaker has no choice but to do something, usually reluctantly, because circumstances, obligations, or pressure from others leave no alternative. Close to 'cannot help but' or 'have no choice but to'.
しかもNeutralA conjunction meaning 'moreover' or 'what's more'. (1) It adds a further fact that reinforces what was just said; (2) it can also mean 'and yet' or 'even so', introducing something that happens despite the preceding fact.
ずに済むNeutralExpresses that one gets by without having to do something that would otherwise have been necessary or unpleasant, often because of favorable circumstances or preparation. It carries a nuance of relief.
せいかNeutralMarks a possible but uncertain cause, like "perhaps because of" or "maybe due to." The speaker guesses at the reason for a result, which is usually undesirable or neutral.
せめてNeutral"At least"; "if nothing else." When the full or ideal outcome is out of reach, the speaker scales down to a minimum and wishes for, asks for, or settles on that much.
そうするとNeutralA sentence-initial conjunction. (1) "When (I) did that": it links an action to what happened or was discovered as a result. (2) "In that case / that would mean": it draws a conclusion from what was just said.
その上NeutralA conjunction meaning 'moreover', 'besides', or 'on top of that'. It adds another fact or quality to what was just said, usually one that points the same way and strengthens the overall point.
それなのにNeutralA conjunction meaning 'and yet' or 'despite that'. It introduces an outcome that goes against what the previous sentence led you to expect, and it usually carries the speaker's surprise, disappointment or dissatisfaction.
それならNeutralA conjunction meaning 'in that case' or 'if so'. It takes up what someone has just said, or a situation the speaker has just learned about, and introduces a suggestion, advice, intention or judgment based on it.
それにしてもNeutral(1) Even allowing for what was just said, the speaker still feels something is excessive or surprising; (2) a sentence opener that shifts to, or returns to, a matter the speaker is struck by, often with an exclamatory tone.
だけあってNeutralExpresses that a result or quality is just what one would expect given a certain fact, such as status, experience, effort or reputation. It is usually used to praise: 'as might be expected of…', 'befitting…', 'no wonder, since…'.
だけにNeutralExpresses that because of X, a result or feeling Y is natural or all the greater. (1) Because of X, Y follows as one would expect; (2) because of X, the impact (often disappointment or shock) is all the greater.
だけのことはあるNeutralExpresses that something lives up to expectations. A quality or result is fully worthy of someone's status, reputation, effort or cost, like 'as you would expect of…' or '…really paid off'. It is used to give positive evaluation or admiration.
だけはNeutralUsed with a repeated verb to say that one will at least do something, or do as much as one can, regardless of the result: (1) do as much as one can; (2) at least do X, whatever comes of it.
だけましだNeutralAcknowledges one redeeming point in an otherwise unsatisfactory situation: 'at least ~, so it could be worse.' The speaker accepts a bad situation by focusing on the part that is less bad.
だってCasualA sentence-initial conjunction meaning "but" or "because". The speaker uses it to justify themselves or give an excuse, typically in reply to a question, criticism, or complaint.
だの〜だのCasualLists examples of things, actions, or statements, often with a dismissive or exasperated tone. In these examples, it reports complaints and excuses: “X, Y, and so on.”
たまえCasualA command form meaning "do ~." A superior uses it to tell a junior or subordinate what to do. It sounds authoritative, masculine and somewhat old-fashioned.
たら〜たでCasualUsed when the same verb or adjective is repeated: 'if/when X happens, that situation brings its own (often different) issue.' (1) X brings a new problem or downside; (2) X would be acceptable, and one can deal with it.
つ〜つWrittenExpresses two opposing or paired actions alternating back and forth repeatedly, as in 'going back and forth' or 'rising and sinking'. It is a literary pattern found mostly in set expressions.
っこないCasualExpresses the speaker's strong conviction that something is impossible or will never happen: "there's no way ~", "~ can't possibly ~". (1) Denies that someone can do something, often with potential verbs; (2) denies that something will happen or that someone would do something.
つつWrittenAttached to a verb, つつ links two actions by the same subject. (1) Two actions happen at the same time: "while doing"; (2) it shows contrast: "although/despite doing", often with verbs like 知る or 思う.
つつあるWrittenIndicates that a change or process is currently underway and gradually progressing toward completion: "is in the process of ~ing," "is gradually ~ing." It is typically used with verbs expressing change.
であれ〜であれWrittenWhether it is X or Y; be it X or Y. (1) Two contrasting alternatives are paired to say the main-clause conclusion holds either way; (2) representative members of a group are listed to say the statement applies to anyone or anything in that group.
ていてはNeutralIf someone keeps doing something or stays in a certain state, an undesirable result will follow. It is used to warn or criticize, implying the situation should change.
てからでないとNeutralExpresses that a certain action must be done first. Unless or until it is completed, the following situation cannot happen or is difficult. The second clause is typically negative or expresses impossibility.
てこそNeutralExpresses that only by doing X can a result or value Y truly be achieved or understood. It is often translated as "only when/if you do X…" or "it is precisely by doing X that…" and stresses X as the essential condition.
でしかないNeutralRestricts something to X and nothing more: (1) it presents someone or something as holding only a limited, often modest status; (2) it reduces something that may seem significant to a plain category, stripping away any larger importance.
てたまらないNeutralExpresses that a feeling, sensation, or desire is so intense the speaker can hardly bear or hold it back: 'unbearably', 'terribly', 'can't help feeling'. It attaches to words describing emotions, physical sensations, or wants.
てでもNeutralExpresses strong determination: someone is willing to resort to an extreme, costly, or undesirable means to achieve a goal. It translates as “even if it means doing ~” or “even by doing ~.”
てならないWrittenExpresses a feeling or thought so strong that the speaker cannot suppress it: "can't help feeling …", "terribly …". (1) An emotion or concern is overwhelmingly intense; (2) with spontaneous verbs such as 思われる, a thought keeps arising on its own.
てはNeutral(1) Presents a condition that leads to an undesirable or problematic result: 'if (you do) X, (something bad happens)'. (2) With verbs, describes two actions alternating in a repeated cycle ('do X, then Y, over and over'). This sense does not imply a negative result.
てはいられないNeutralExpresses that, given the circumstances, the speaker cannot afford to go on doing something or stay in a certain state any longer. It often conveys urgency or a feeling that one must act.
てばかりはいられないNeutralExpresses that one cannot afford to keep doing only one thing, because circumstances require moving on or taking other action. Often used as a self-admonition.
てはならないWrittenExpresses a strong prohibition, 'must not': (1) bans an action on the basis of rules or regulations; (2) states a moral principle or general admonition about what one must never do.
てまでNeutralExpresses going so far as to take an extreme, costly, or undesirable step to achieve something. It is often followed by the speaker's judgment that the goal is not worth such a step, or by surprise at someone's lengths.
てみせるNeutral(1) To do something in front of someone so they can see it, e.g. to show how it is done; (2) to declare firm determination to achieve something and prove it to others: "I'll definitely do it, just watch."
て以来WrittenMeans 'ever since (doing)'. It marks a past action or event as a starting point, and the main clause describes a state, change, or situation that has held from then on, usually up to the present, or up to a later endpoint given with まで.
て当然だNeutralExpresses that a result or situation is natural, expected, or only to be expected given the circumstances: "it's only natural that…", "no wonder…". It can also mark something as the obvious right or deserved thing.
というかCasualUsed to rephrase what one has just said with a more accurate or fitting expression, like "or rather" or "I mean." (1) Corrects, refines, or intensifies a description mid-sentence; (2) at the start of a sentence, marks a shift or correction in the conversation.
ということはNeutralA connective that draws a conclusion or implication from what was just stated, like English "that means…" or "so…". It can stand at the start of a sentence or follow a clause, and the conclusion often ends with ということだ, に違いない or はずだ.
というふうにNeutralDescribes the way something is done by giving concrete examples of the pattern: 'in such a way that ~', 'like ~'. (1) It sums up listed examples as a pattern of action; (2) it can loosely give the content or manner of what someone says or thinks.
というものだNeutralUsed to state the speaker's firm judgment about what something truly is. (1) It defines the essence of something: "that is what X really is." (2) It gives a critical assessment: "that is nothing but X" or "that is simply X."
というものではないNeutralRejects a commonly held idea or assumption as not necessarily true: "it doesn't follow that…" or "it isn't the case that…". It is a partial negation that challenges a generalization rather than flatly denying a fact, and it often follows からといって or 必ずしも.
というものでもないNeutralRejects a common assumption, rule of thumb, or hasty inference: "it's not necessarily the case that…" or "it doesn't follow that…". It is a partial negation. The speaker says the idea does not automatically hold, rather than calling it flatly false.
といったNeutral(1) Means "such as" or "like": gives one or more representative examples before a noun naming the group they belong to. (2) Connects quoted or described content to a noun such as 意見, 声 or 問題, presenting it as typical of what that noun contains ("opinions like…").
どうせCasual(1) “Anyway”: presents an expected outcome, often an unfavorable one, with resignation; (2) with なら or のだから, “if/since … anyway”: treats that outcome as a premise for a conclusion.
どうやらNeutral(1) Apparently; introduces a conclusion inferred from signs or evidence. (2) Somehow; indicates that something was managed despite difficulty.
ところからWrittenGives the basis or origin of something: (1) the fact a name or designation comes from; (2) the circumstance that led to a later result or development. Roughly 'from the fact that…' or 'because…'.
ところだったNeutral(1) Something, usually undesirable, very nearly happened but did not: "almost ~" or "nearly ~", often with もう少しで or 危うく; (2) without such cues, it can simply mean "was just about to ~" at a past moment.
どころではないNeutralExpresses that circumstances, such as being busy or facing a pressing problem, leave no room for X; it is not the time or situation for X. X is often something enjoyable or relaxing.
ところに / ところへNeutralMarks the point when the subject is (1) just about to do, (2) in the middle of doing, or (3) has just done something, and another event comes in and affects or interrupts that situation. The event is often unwelcome, though it can also be timely.
ところをNeutral(1) Acknowledges someone’s circumstances in a polite expression of thanks or apology; (2) marks the moment or situation in which someone is affected by a subsequent action.
ところを見るとNeutralJudging from ~ / seeing that ~. The speaker presents something they have observed as evidence and draws an inference or guess from it.
としてはNeutral(1) For a (noun): judges something against the standard typical of its category, often noting that it is unusual or stands out; (2) As far as (a person or group) is concerned: introduces the standpoint from which an opinion or position is stated.
としてもNeutralEven if; even supposing. Marks a hypothetical or conceded premise and says the main clause still holds. The premise is often a future event or an assumed state, and it is frequently introduced by たとえ or 仮に.
とっくにCasualAn adverb meaning 'long ago' or 'well before now/then'. It stresses that an action or change was completed much earlier than a reference point, often implying that someone is late or behind. The reference point is usually now or a past moment, but it can also be a future one.
ともWrittenEven if / no matter (how, what, who) …; a formal concessive stating that however the condition turns out, the result or resolve stays the same: (1) with a hypothetical condition, often with たとえ; (2) with a question word, meaning no matter who, what or how.
と考えられるWrittenIt is thought that…; it can be considered that…. Presents a judgment or inference as objective and reasoned rather than as a personal opinion. It is typical of reports, news, and academic writing.
と同時にNeutral(1) Two events occur at the same moment or in immediate succession: “as soon as”; (2) two qualities or roles coexist: “while also being.”
ないではいられないNeutralExpresses that one cannot help doing something, because a strong feeling or urge makes holding back impossible. (1) an involuntary reaction to emotion; (2) giving in to an urge despite trying to resist.
なおWrittenA sentence-initial conjunction meaning 'please note that,' 'in addition,' or 'incidentally.' After the main point is stated, it adds a supplementary remark, detail, caution, or supporting note.
なくはないNeutralA double negative (“it's not that not X”) that gives a weak, hedged affirmation. It can express (1) reluctant or partial willingness or feeling; (2) a concession that a quality holds to some degree. It is often followed by a けど or が clause stating the speaker's real point.
なしにNeutralMeans 'without N'. Attached to a noun, it marks something as missing or not done. It is often followed by a negative or impossibility expression to say that the result cannot happen without that thing.
にあたってFormalMarks an important, often formal occasion or undertaking and what one does at its start or in preparation for it: 'on the occasion of', 'when (about to) do'. (1) Remarks made at the opening of an event; (2) preparations made before starting something significant.
にあたりFormalMeans 'on the occasion of' or 'at the outset of' an important event or undertaking. When facing a significant moment such as an opening, a new year, or a new project, the speaker does something fitting, such as greeting the audience, stating intentions, or preparing.
にかかわらずWrittenRegardless of; irrespective of. It states that something applies whether a factor varies across a range or between alternatives.
にかこつけてNeutralUsing X as a pretext or excuse to do (or avoid) something, where X is not the real reason. It usually carries a critical or ironic tone toward the person's motives.
にしたらNeutralFrom the standpoint of (someone). The speaker considers how a particular person or group feels or sees things, usually another party but sometimes the speaker (私にしたら). It is often paired with a guess such as だろう or に違いない, though plain statements are also natural.
にしてもNeutralConcessive "even if / even granting that." (1) Accepts a fact, then gives the speaker's contrary view; (2) supposes a case, then says the conclusion still holds; (3) in "AにしてもBにしても," means "whether A or B."
にしろ / にせよWritten(1) Even if X, even granting X; the main clause holds regardless. (2) In the paired form X にしろ Y にしろ: whether X or Y. (3) With question words (何にせよ, いずれにせよ): no matter what, in any case.
につきFormal(1) Because of / due to: a stiff, formal way to state a reason, typical of notices and announcements; (2) per / for each: states a rate or amount allotted to each unit.
につけWritten"Whenever / every time one does V": each time the action of the preceding verb (typically 見る, 聞く, 思う or 考える) takes place, a feeling, thought or memory naturally follows. In the fixed expressions 何かにつけ(て) and 何事につけ it means "at every opportunity, in every matter".
にてFormalA formal particle corresponding to で. It marks (1) where an event or action takes place, or a point in time; (2) the means or channel used; or (3) a reason.
にほかならないWrittenAsserts emphatically that something is exactly what is stated and nothing else: (1) 'X is none other than Y / X is nothing less than Y'; (2) after から or ため, 'it is precisely because of… / precisely for the sake of…', singling out the one true reason or purpose.
にもかかわらずWrittenにもかかわらず means “despite” or “even though”: it introduces a fact that makes the outcome unexpected. Sentence-initial それにもかかわらず means “nevertheless” and refers back to an earlier statement.
にわたってWrittenExpresses that something extends over an entire period, range, or area, often one felt to be long or wide: (1) throughout or over a span of time or number of occurrences; (2) across a range or area of space or scope.
に越したことはないNeutralExpresses that doing or having something is the best or safest choice: "nothing beats X," "it's best to X." It often implies that X is desirable or advisable but not strictly essential.
に沿ってNeutral(1) Along something that extends in a line or has a long edge, such as a river, road, coastline, or wall; (2) in line with or in accordance with a plan, policy, guideline, or someone's wishes.
に応えてNeutralMeans 'in response to' someone's expectations, wishes, or support, acting to meet or live up to them: (1) to live up to others' expectations or encouragement; (2) to meet a request or demand by taking action.
に応じてNeutral(1) In accordance with / depending on: something is adjusted or varies to suit a changing factor such as number, amount, ability or situation; (2) in response to: acting to meet a request, demand or invitation (e.g. 依頼に応じて).
に過ぎないWrittenExpresses that something is merely X and nothing more. (1) It limits or plays down the nature, status, or importance of something, whether dismissively or as a modest hedge; (2) it stresses that a number, amount, or degree is small.
に関わるWritten(1) To affect or have a serious bearing on something important, such as life or the future; (2) more neutrally, to be involved in, or to relate to, an activity or matter.
に基づいてWrittenMeans 'based on' or 'on the basis of'. It marks what serves as the grounds or basis for an action, decision or judgment: (1) data, facts or research from which something is made or decided; (2) a rule, law or principle that an action follows.
に決まっているCasualExpresses the speaker's firm conviction that something is certainly so: (1) a confident prediction, 'is bound to', 'is sure to'; (2) an assertion that something is self-evident, 'of course', 'obviously'.
に限ってNeutral(1) Precisely on this occasion, of all times, something unwelcome or contrary to the usual happens; (2) X, of all people, would surely never do such a thing, expressing strong trust.
に限らずNeutralMeans "not limited to X" or "not just X." It says that what is true of X is also true of a wider range of things or people.
に限るNeutral(1) Expresses the speaker's personal conviction that something is the best choice in a given situation: 'X is best,' 'nothing beats X'; (2) in notices and rules, restricts something to a certain group or condition: 'limited to X.'
に向かってNeutral(1) Facing or moving toward a physical direction, place, or object; (2) working toward a goal or target; (3) directed at a person, either moving toward them or directly addressing them.
に際してFormalOn the occasion of; at the time of. Marks an event, procedure, or undertaking as the occasion for a formal action such as a greeting, thanks, announcement, or notice.
に先立ちWrittenPrior to / in advance of. Marks a significant event, and the main clause describes an action done beforehand, typically preparation or a preliminary step such as setting up or giving instructions.
に相違ないWrittenExpresses the speaker's strong conviction that something is certainly true, based on some grounds; 'must be', 'there is no doubt that'. It is a formal, written-style equivalent of に違いない.
に伴ってWrittenLinks two changes or events that go together: (1) as X changes or develops, Y changes along with it; (2) Y happens, or is carried out, as an accompaniment to or consequence of an event X.
に反してWrittenExpresses that an outcome goes against something: (1) contrary to an expectation, prediction or wish; (2) against or in violation of a rule, law or someone's will.
ねばならないWrittenExpresses obligation or necessity: something must be done, whether because of duty, principle, or circumstances. It is a formal, literary equivalent of なければならない.
のみかWrittenMeans 'not only X, but also Y.' It adds a further, often more striking, fact to the first one. It is a formal, literary equivalent of ばかりか.
のみならずWrittenNot only X but also Y: a formal expression that extends a statement about X to Y. It can also introduce a further point after a preceding statement.
のもとでWrittenMeans "under" someone's guidance, supervision, or protection, or "under" certain conditions or support. It marks the authority, influence, or circumstances under which an action takes place: (1) under a person's guidance or supervision; (2) under given conditions or with someone's support.
のももっともだNeutralExpresses that a feeling, reaction, or state is perfectly understandable given the circumstances: "it's only natural that…" or "no wonder…". (1) Someone's reaction or feeling is reasonable; (2) a resulting state or condition is to be expected.
ばかりだNeutralExpresses that a situation keeps changing in one direction with no sign of stopping or reversing, usually for the worse: 'just keeps getting (worse)', 'does nothing but (decline)'. It can occasionally describe a continuing positive change.
ばかりにWrittenExpresses that one cause, often minor, led to a bad or regrettable result: 'just because', 'simply because'. (1) A single action caused an unfortunate result; (2) a quality or state, even a good one, brings a bad outcome; (3) with 〜たいばかりに, 'out of a strong desire to…', explaining why someone went to great lengths.
はともかくNeutralMeans 'setting X aside' or 'X aside'. The speaker puts one matter aside, either because it is debatable or less important for now, and turns to the point they want to make: (1) X may be questionable, but Y holds; (2) leave X for later and deal with Y first.
はもとよりWritten"Not only X (which goes without saying), but also Y." It presents X as the obvious or expected case and adds Y as a further, often broader or less expected, case.
ふうにNeutralExpresses the manner or way in which something is done: (1) 'in this/that way, like this/that', most often after こんな/そんな/あんな; (2) 'in what way, how', with どんなふうに asking about manner or method.
べきだNeutralExpresses what someone should or ought to do based on moral judgment, common sense, or duty. (1) What is right or proper to do; (2) advice or a recommendation stated as the speaker's opinion.
まいWrittenA literary negative auxiliary with two senses: (1) the speaker's firm resolve not to do something ('will not, determined not to'); (2) negative conjecture ('probably not, surely not'), a formal equivalent of ないだろう.
ままにNeutral(1) Doing something as another person tells or urges you to, often with a sense of passive compliance; (2) acting as your feelings or impulses lead you.
むしろNeutralAn adverb meaning "rather" or "if anything." It marks B as the more accurate description, the better choice, or the actual (often unexpected) outcome compared with A: (1) B describes things better; (2) B is preferable; (3) if anything, the result leans the opposite way.
もう少しでNeutral(1) Almost or nearly: something came close to happening but did not; (2) soon: an event or state is only a little time away.
もかまわずNeutralDoing something without caring about what one would normally be expected to consider: (1) other people's eyes, one's appearance, or one's surroundings; (2) others' warnings, objections, or actions, which the subject carries on in spite of.
もっともNeutralA sentence-initial conjunction meaning 'though' or 'mind you'. After a statement, it adds a qualification, condition, or exception that partly limits what was just said.
ものCasualA sentence-final particle that gives a reason, often as an excuse or justification: (1) justifying one's own behavior or situation; (2) backing up a statement one has just made. It is colloquial and somewhat emotional, like "after all" or "because, you see."
ものかCasual(1) Expresses a forceful refusal to do something; (2) emphatically denies that something is or could be true. The final か is rhetorical, not a request for an answer.
ものがあるNeutralExpresses the speaker's impression that something has a certain quality or evokes a certain feeling: 'there is something ~ about it', 'it is rather ~'. It softly asserts a subjective evaluation, often an emotional or impressionistic one.
ものだNeutral(1) With a past-tense verb, it recalls something that used to happen habitually, often with nostalgia; (2) it states a general truth or natural tendency, often with emotion or exclamation; (3) it states what one naturally should do by common sense or social norms.
ものだからCasualBecause; the thing is that. It gives a reason in an explanatory, often excusing tone. The speaker uses it to justify a situation or their own action, usually one that was unavoidable or unintended.
ものではないNeutral(1) Admonishes by appealing to a social or moral norm: one should not do something, as a matter of common sense; (2) Denies that something is naturally or readily so: by its nature, it is not the kind of thing that happens or can be done (in the way stated).
ものならNeutral(1) Attached to a potential verb: 'if it were possible to ~', expressing a wish for something the speaker thinks is unlikely or impossible; (2) attached to a volitional form: 'if one were to (dare) ~', warning that a bad consequence would follow.
もののWrittenAlthough; even though. ものの acknowledges a fact or action, then introduces a result that differs from what might be expected.
やがてWritten(1) Before long, eventually: after some time passes, a new event or state comes about, whether the wait is short or long; (2) Nearly, almost: used with a length of time that is about to be reached (e.g., やがて十年になる).
ようがない / ようもないNeutral(1) States that there is no way or means to do something, so it is impossible given the circumstances; (2) in the noun-modifying form ようのない, describes something that cannot be put into words or dealt with. ようもない is a slightly more emphatic variant.
ようではNeutralIf something is like this, then (a bad result follows). The speaker judges a present state or behavior and warns or criticizes that, at this level, a desired outcome cannot be achieved.
ようではないかFormalA strong, rhetorical call to action, "let us ~!" The speaker urges a group, including themselves, to do something together. It is typical of speeches and addresses.
よりほかないWrittenExpresses that there is no alternative but to do something: "have no choice but to ~" or "can only ~". It is used when every other option has been ruled out.
わずかにNeutralAn adverb stressing that something is very small. (1) In degree, it means 'slightly' or 'faintly'; (2) in amount, it means 'only' or 'a mere', often together with しか〜ない.
をきっかけにNeutralTaking X as the trigger or starting point: some event, experience, or encounter X prompts a new action, change, or development described in the main clause. It corresponds to English 'prompted by X', 'X was what led to…', or 'with X as the turning point'.
をめぐってWrittenMeans "over," "concerning," or "surrounding" an issue that is a focus of activity. (1) Most often it marks the issue that debate, dispute, or negotiation among several parties revolves around. (2) It can also mark an incident or matter that is the focus of investigation, speculation, or attention.
をもとにNeutralBased on; using something as the source, material, or starting point. It marks the basis from which something is created, developed, or decided: (1) source material for a work; (2) information used as a basis for action.
を契機にWrittenMarks an event as the opportunity or turning point for a new development: "taking X as an opportunity", "with X as a turning point". The main clause describes a change or new action that follows from or starts at X.
を除いてWrittenMeans 'except (for)' or 'excluding'. It marks something as left out of a group or statement, and what follows applies to everything else. (1) excluding a member from a group; (2) setting aside one point so the rest of the statement holds.
を通じて / を通してNeutral(1) Through, via: marks the means, medium, or intermediary by which something is done or obtained; (2) throughout: indicates that something continues over an entire period or scope.
を問わずWrittenMeans "regardless of," "irrespective of," or "without regard to." It states that differences within a category, such as age, gender, weather, or experience, do not matter to what follows.
以上にNeutralExpresses that something goes beyond a standard or point of comparison: (1) to a greater degree than X, more than X; (2) more than being X, even more so Y. Sense (2) presents a second quality as more notable than the first.
以上はNeutralExpresses what follows from an established fact, commitment, or status: (1) having made a commitment, one must follow through; (2) given a role or status, one should act accordingly.
果たしてWrittenAn adverb with two senses: (1) in questions, it casts doubt on whether something is really so: 'I wonder if it's really…'; (2) in statements, it confirms that something turned out as expected: 'sure enough, just as expected.'
逆にNeutralConversely; on the contrary. (1) Introduces the opposite case or condition to the one just stated; (2) introduces an effect or view that runs opposite to what was said or expected.
恐れがあるWrittenExpresses that there is a risk or danger that something undesirable may happen. It is used for negative outcomes, often in warnings, news and official announcements.
限りNeutral(1) 'As long as' or 'while': the main clause holds for as long as the condition continues; (2) with ない限り, 'unless': the result holds unless the condition occurs; (3) 'as far as' or 'to the limit of' (私の知る限り, できる限り).
次第Neutral(1) After a verb stem, 次第 means “as soon as” and introduces an action to follow; (2) after a noun, it means “depends on” that factor.
次第だ / 次第でNeutralIndicates what an outcome or decision hinges on: (1) as a predicate, N次第だ/N次第です means "it depends on N"; (2) as a connective, N次第で means "depending on N, …" and introduces a result that varies with N.
手前NeutralExpresses that concern for one's face or appearance restricts what one can do: (1) with a person, 'in front of / out of regard for how it looks to' someone; (2) with a past action or statement, 'having said or done X,' so one cannot now back down.
上WrittenAttached to a noun, it means "from the standpoint of X" or "in terms of X": it frames a statement as true according to a certain field, rule, or aspect, as in legally, budget-wise, or historically.
上にNeutralAdds a further fact on top of one already stated, meaning 'on top of', 'besides' or 'not only… but also'. Both facts usually point the same way, either both good or both bad.
上はWrittenExpresses that because a situation holds or a decision has been made, a certain response naturally follows: (1) the speaker's own resolve or determination; (2) a duty or piece of advice about what one should do.
中をNeutral(1) Doing something, often moving, through a difficult physical condition such as bad weather: 'through ~, in ~'; (2) carrying on despite a difficult circumstance, especially in polite set phrases acknowledging someone's trouble (e.g., お忙しい中を).
直ちにFormalA formal adverb meaning "immediately, at once, without delay," stressing prompt action with no time lost. (1) immediately, at once; (2) directly, as a necessary consequence, mainly in partial-negation frames such as 直ちに〜とは言えない.
得ないWrittenAttached to a verb's ます-stem, expresses that something is impossible or cannot happen: "cannot possibly ~", "~ is unthinkable". It is the negative counterpart of 得る.
得るWrittenExpresses possibility or capability in formal, written-style language: (1) something can or could happen; (2) someone is able to carry out an action. It is a stiff, literary way of saying 'can' or 'could.'
抜きで / 抜きにしてNeutralWithout X; leaving out or dispensing with X, something that would normally be included or expected. It attaches to nouns and describes doing something with that element omitted.
抜くNeutralAttached to a verb stem, 抜く means (1) carrying an action through to the very end despite difficulty or hardship; (2) doing something thoroughly and completely.
反面NeutralPresents two contrasting aspects of the same person or thing: "while X, on the other hand Y." One side is often positive and the other negative, or vice versa.
末にWrittenAfter a long process, effort or series of events; 'in the end', 'after much …'. It marks the lengthy process that finally led to the outcome in the main clause.
要するにNeutralA conjunctive adverb meaning "in short" or "the point is." It reduces what came before to its essential point. Senses: (1) summing up the speaker's own explanation; (2) stating what someone else really means or intends.

N2

Say it right, write it right