ないまでも
Meanings
- may not be the case, but at least
- even though not, at least
- if not ~, then ~
About this pattern
Explanation
ないまでも is used to acknowledge that something is not fully true or fully achieved, but there is still a smaller or partial expectation, alternative, or consequence that follows. It contrasts a stronger condition with a more modest one, often implying that even if the ideal or perfect state isn’t met, a workable or acceptable outcome is possible. It is common in advice, expectations, or explanations where you manage someone's or your own expectations.
Learn in context
Example sentences
Even if I can’t speak English, I can at least manage simple greetings.
He may not finish perfectly, but let's at least submit it and see how it goes.
This problem may be difficult, but even if we can't solve it completely, we understand the main points.
It may be hard to be completely quiet, but I’ll at least avoid making noise.
Keep studying
More N1 patterns
from ... to ...; from start to finish; up to and including
View detailsNo matter how ~, it won't change the outcome; Even if ~, the result is still unlikely; Even though ~, it doesn't matter; it's futile to ~
View detailslike; similar to; as if; the same as
View detailsto be worthy of; to be enough for; to be sufficient
View detailsextreme; extremely; unbearably; to an extreme degree
View detailsEven though; Even if; Although; Despite
View details