JLPT N3

～て初めて

not until; only after

Structure

Verb-te form + 初めて

How it works

This expression indicates that an action or realization happened for the first time only after a prerequisite action was completed. It highlights the novelty of the subsequent experience.

Examples

日本へ来て初めて刺身を食べた。

I ate sashimi for the first time after coming to Japan.

Common mistakes

Using it for 'first time' without the 'after doing X' nuance; '初めて' alone is for a simple first experience.

Tip

Visualize the 'te-form' action as a key that unlocks the '初めて' experience.

More JLPT N3 grammar

としてに対してについてによってに関してにとってわけだわけがない

See ～て初めて in real Japanese

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