JLPT N2 Grammar Point: 〜さえ
This JLPT N2 grammar point explains how to use 〜さえ correctly, with formation rules and example sentences.
Pattern
- N + さえ
- N + さえ + Vば
- N + さえ + すれば
Explanation
Emphasizes that even the most extreme or unexpected example applies, implying that all others are obvious.
Usage
Used to highlight a surprising example or minimum condition. When followed by a conditional like 'さえ〜ば', it shows that as long as that one condition is met, the rest doesn’t matter.
Formation
Attach directly to nouns. For conditional forms, use 〜さえ〜ば or 〜さえすれば.
Examples
名前さえ書けば、参加できる。
なまえさえかけば、さんかできる。You can participate as long as you just write your name.
そんなこと、子どもさえ知っている。
そんなこと、こどもさえしっている。Even a child knows that.
水さえあれば、生きていける。
みずさえあれば、いきていける。As long as I have water, I can survive.