JLPT N1
極まりない
Extremely / Utterly
Structure
な-Adj 極まりない
How it works
This expression is used to emphasize that a situation or quality has reached its absolute limit, typically in a negative sense. It is a formal, literary phrase that follows the root of a Na-adjective to mean 'infinitely' or 'extremely.' While synonymous with 'kiwamete,' this structure carries a stronger tone of indignation or critical evaluation.
Examples
彼の態度は失礼極まりない。
His attitude is utterly rude.
何の連絡もなしに欠席するとは、無責任極まりない。
Absenting oneself without any notice is the height of irresponsibility.
そんな危険な場所に一人で行くなんて、無謀極まりない。
Going to such a dangerous place alone is incredibly reckless.
Common mistakes
Do not use 'da' (だ) after the Na-adjective; it attaches directly to the stem (e.g., use 'shitsurei kiwamarinai,' not 'shitsurei da kiwamarinai').
Tip
This grammar point is almost exclusively used with Na-adjectives that have negative connotations. For I-adjectives, the structure usually changes to 'A-i koto kiwamarinai'.
More JLPT N1 grammar
See 極まりない in real Japanese
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