~てこそ
Meanings
- Only if
- Only by
- Because (to emphasize)
- Unless
- Until
About this pattern
Explanation
~てこそ expresses that a certain outcome or truth only becomes real or meaningful when the preceding action is done or the preceding condition is met. It adds emphasis, showing that the result depends on the condition, and often carries a sense of effort, necessity, or contrast. It is used to highlight that without the stated condition, the situation would not be as it is, or the outcome would not occur.
Learn in context
Example sentences
Only by putting in effort do you get results.
Not just by looking, but by actually using it you understand its value.
Only by taking the classes seriously can you pass the exam.
Only when we cooperate as a team do good results come out.
Only by facing hardships can a person grow.
Keep studying
More N2 patterns
to be able to; can; possible to do
View detailsUnable to; Cannot; Cannot possibly
View detailsCan't help doing; Have no choice but to...
View detailsto not ~; un~; archaic negative form of ず used in literary Japanese
View detailsWith the intention of doing; Instead of...; Act as if or pretend; Believing that...; Thinking that...
View detailsanyhow; at any rate; in any case; I have no doubt that; probably
View details