Lesson article
Spot the signal, compare it, then read it in context
Read all 4 sections in order. Notice the target form, compare it with the nearby alternative, then use the reading and practice below to check the meaning in context.
Section 1 of 4
Only or just
Use after nouns, quantities, and clauses to mean “only” or “just”.
Start with the example
。
Just water, please.
Notice the variation
。
I bought only three.
More detail: how to apply this
is a flexible limiter.
It can follow nouns, numbers, and many other forms.
Its tone is often neutral and factual.
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
Attach to the exact item it limits rather than extending the limit to an unrelated part of the sentence.
supplies the state under that day limit: the shop is open on Saturdays only.
。
This shop is open only on Saturdays.
Attach to the exact item it limits rather than extending the limit to an unrelated part of the sentence.
Showing Try this approach: Everyday words.
Target signal
。
Just water, please.
Vocabulary notes
- だけ
- only; just
- ください
- please give; please do
Compare in context
。
I bought only three.
Compare in context
。
Today I will study only kanji.
Vocabulary notes
- 勉強します
- study
Section 2 of 4
As much as possible or as much as you can
As much as possible or as much as you can
Start with the example
。
Please come as early as possible.
Notice the variation
。
Please write as much as you understand.
More detail: how to apply this
You will often see or .
In these cases, marks a limit based on ability, time, or amount.
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
Please come as early as possible.
In this example, the message is: Please come as early as possible.
。
Please come as early as possible.
Return to the Japanese and locate the words supporting this meaning: Please come as early as possible.
Showing As much as possible or as much as you can: Everyday words.
Target signal
。
Please come as early as possible.
Preview
。
Please write as much as you understand.
Vocabulary notes
- 書いてください
- please write
Preview
。
Please eat as much as you can.
Section 3 of 4
Reading nuance: neutral limitation
Attach to the exact item it limits rather than extending the limit to an unrelated part of the sentence.
Reading nuance: neutral limitation
。
Step 1 of 3 · Notice the clue
The shop is the topic. The limiting phrase will determine which opening times are included.
Step 1: Notice the clue
More detail: the reading method
often states a limit without the stronger feeling of shortage, surprise, or disappointment that 〜 can suggest.
In reading, it is often the less emotional option.
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
Only the department head attended the meeting.
In this example, the message is: Only the department head attended the meeting.
。
Only the department head attended the meeting.
Return to the Japanese and locate the words supporting this meaning: Only the department head attended the meeting.
Showing Reading nuance: neutral limitation: Everyday words.
More examples
Target signal
。
Only the department head attended the meeting.
Vocabulary notes
- 会議
- meeting
- だけ
- only; just
Preview
。
This shop is open only on Saturdays.
Vocabulary notes
- 土曜日
- Saturday
Preview
。
Please bring only what you need.
Vocabulary notes
- 持って
- holding and
Section 4 of 4
Compare the meaning
Use the contrast to make a decision. Choose an answer before opening the explanation.
Example A
Example B
Your turn · decide before revealing
How do these two examples change the meaning?
More detail: what changes and why
Compare and .
limits the set;
can emphasize the count as noteworthy or large in context.
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
Same words, two possible interpretations. Which has evidence?
limits the set; can emphasize the count as noteworthy or large in context.
How do these two examples change the meaning?
Supported meaning: Only three came / as many as three came
Use the sentence to choose between these interpretations; do not add information that is only in an answer choice.
Showing Compare the meaning: Everyday words.