JLPT N1

～だけまし

At least; it's better than nothing

Structure

Verb-dictionary form / Noun + だけまし

How it works

This expression is used to indicate that while a situation may not be ideal, it is still better than an even worse alternative. It conveys a sense of gratitude or acceptance for what one has, despite its imperfections.

Examples

給料は低いが、仕事があるだけましだ。

The salary is low, but at least I have a job.

Common mistakes

Using it for entirely positive situations; it's for finding the good in a less-than-ideal circumstance.

Tip

Think "it could be worse".

More JLPT N1 grammar

いかんによらずをもってをものともせずともなるとであれたりとも~ないに足る極まりない

See ～だけまし in real Japanese

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