JLPT N1
ないまでも
Even if not ~ at least
Structure
Verb ない-form までも
How it works
This structure is used to express that while a certain high level or ideal state (A) cannot be reached, a lower but acceptable level (B) should at least be achieved. It translates to 'even if it doesn't reach the level of A' or 'while not quite A.' It is often paired with words like 'せめて' or '少なくとも'.
Examples
毎日とは言わないまでも、せめて週に三回は運動するべきだ。
Even if I don't say every day, you should at least exercise three times a week.
全額ではないまでも、費用の半分は負担してほしい。
Even if it's not the full amount, I want you to cover at least half of the costs.
絶賛とはいかないまでも、彼の新しい映画は概ね好評だった。
While not exactly receiving high praise, his new movie was generally well-received.
Common mistakes
Do not read this 'ないまでも' as simply meaning 'without doing'; it must always contrast an ideal extreme with a realistic minimum.
Tip
Think of this as 'A is impossible, but B is the minimum requirement.' It is frequently used when giving advice or expressing a compromise.
More JLPT N1 grammar
See ないまでも in real Japanese
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