N261/217

~てこそ

Verb (て-form) + 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

努力してこそ、結果が出る。

Only by putting in effort do you get results.

見ただけではなく、実際に使ってこそその良さが分かる。

Not just by looking, but by actually using it you understand its value.

授業を真剣に受けてこそ、試験に合格できる。

Only by taking the classes seriously can you pass the exam.

チームとして協力してこそ、いい結果が出る。

Only when we cooperate as a team do good results come out.

困難を経験してこそ、人として成長する。

Only by facing hardships can a person grow.