さえ
Meanings
- Even
- Only requires a small condition
- Nothing but this is enough to make a point
About this pattern
Explanation
さえ is a particle used to highlight that even something small or seemingly unimportant is enough to achieve a result, or to emphasize an extreme condition. It can be attached to nouns or to the dictionary form of verbs, and is often used with conditional forms like 〜さえあれば or 〜さえ〜ば to say “as long as there is even ~” or “even ~ would be enough.” It adds a nuance of exclusivity or emphasis, often conveying frustration, surprise, or strong emphasis.
Learn in context
Example sentences
If I only have money, I’ll be safe.
I don’t even know her name.
Don’t even worry about such a small detail.
If today is finished, I’m free.
As long as this box doesn’t get crushed, it’s okay.
Keep studying
More N3 patterns
It would be good if you do X; You should do X; It's enough to do X
View detailsIt would be nice if ...; It would be good if ...; Should ...; I hope ...
View detailsduring; while; throughout; in the process of
View detailswhile; during; between; in the period of
View detailsDuring the period of / while; Before something changes or happens; Within the time when ... happens
View detailsbefore it happens; before doing something becomes true; before it ends/advances; before it’s no longer possible; while still in the state of not ...
View details