JLPT N2
をはじめ
Starting with / Including
Structure
Noun をはじめ
How it works
This grammar point is used to introduce a representative example from a larger group, implying that many others follow the same pattern. It is often followed by words like 'など' (etc.) or 'さまざまな' (various) to emphasize the scope of the group. It is formal in tone and typically used in speeches, news, or formal writing.
Examples
この町には、日本料理をはじめ、世界各国の料理店がある。
In this town, there are restaurants from all over the world, starting with Japanese cuisine.
社長をはじめ、社員全員がボランティア活動に参加した。
Everyone in the company, starting with the president, participated in the volunteer activities.
富士山をはじめ、日本には美しい山がたくさんあります。
There are many beautiful mountains in Japan, including Mt. Fuji.
Common mistakes
Do not use 'をはじめ' for a simple chronological sequence; use 'まず' or '〜から始めて' instead. 'をはじめ' must introduce a representative item of a larger category.
Tip
Look for words like 'など' (etc.), 'いろいろな' (various), or '皆様' (everyone) later in the sentence, as they often pair with 'をはじめ' to show the extent of the group.
More JLPT N2 grammar
See をはじめ in real Japanese
Import an article and tap any sentence using it. The explanation comes back about the sentence in front of you, not a textbook example.
Try InputDojo free