JLPT N2
末に
After (much effort/time)
Structure
Verb た-form 末に / Noun の末に
How it works
This grammar point is used to describe a result that was reached after a long period of time or a process of great effort, struggle, or repeated action. It is often used with verbs involving mental or physical struggle, such as thinking, worrying, or discussing. The nuance is that the outcome was not easily or quickly achieved.
Examples
数時間にわたる議論の末に、ようやく新しい方針が決定した。
After several hours of discussion, a new policy was finally decided.
悩んだ末に、仕事を辞めて留学することにした。
After much agonizing, I decided to quit my job and study abroad.
激しい戦いの末に、ついに我々のチームが勝利を掴んだ。
After a fierce battle, our team finally seized the victory.
Common mistakes
Do not use '末に' for simple chronological sequences that lack effort or time; for example, 'Eating breakfast after waking up' should use '～た後で' instead.
Tip
Think of '末' as 'the end' or 'the extremity.' It signals that you have reached the very end of a long, often difficult path.
More JLPT N2 grammar
See 末に in real Japanese
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