JLPT N3

せいぜい

at most; at best; to maximum effort

Structure

せいぜい + (amount/duration/verb)

How it works

Used to indicate the maximum extent, amount, or limit of something, often implying that it's surprisingly small or limited. It can also urge someone to do their absolute best.

Examples

宿題はせいぜい30分で終わるだろう。

The homework will probably finish in 30 minutes at most.

Common mistakes

Misinterpreting the sarcastic usage; pay attention to context and tone.

Tip

Associate 'せいぜい' with a ceiling – the most you can reach or the most that's possible.

More JLPT N3 grammar

としてに対してについてによってに関してにとってわけだわけがない

See せいぜい in real Japanese

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