N2194/217

にすぎない

Noun + にすぎないNa-adjective + にすぎないVerb (dictionary form) + にすぎない

Meanings

  • No more than
  • Just
  • Merely

About this pattern

Explanation

にすぎない is used to dismiss or minimize something, meaning that it is only that thing and not more important or serious. It conveys a sense of modesty or understatement, often contrasting with expectations or previous statements. It can attach to a noun phrase, an na-adjective, or a verb in dictionary form, with the meaning “only,” “merely,” or “no more than.”

Learn in context

Example sentences

彼の成功は偶然にすぎない。

His success is nothing more than a coincidence.

それは私の力にはすぎない。

That is nothing more than my own effort/power.

彼女の説明はただの推測にすぎない。

Her explanation is merely speculation.

その話題は大したことにはすぎない。

That topic is not a big deal; it’s nothing special.