unless, as long as not

Beginner

15-20 min

very common

Expert Reviewed

Explanation

Indicates a necessary condition for something to happen.

[Verb ない form] + 限り

練習しない限り、上手にならない。

Renshuu shinai kagiri, jouzu ni naranai.

Unless you practice, you will not improve.

許可がない限り、入れません。

Kyoka ga nai kagiri, hairemasen.

Unless you have permission, you cannot enter.

The condition must be negated.

～限りでは

as far as, to the extent that

～に違いない

must be ~, no doubt that ~, undoubtedly

～に関して/関する

regarding ~, concerning ~, about ~

～について/つい

about ~, concerning ~

～に伴って/伴い/伴う

along with ~, as ~ (changes)

Essential conditional pattern.

JLPTBooks Editorial Team

Japanese Language Education Specialists

Last updated: Jan 2

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