JLPT N2

~に越したことはない

There's nothing better than, it's best to

Structure

動詞-辞書形 / 動詞-ない形 + に越したことはない

How it works

This phrase means 'there's nothing better than X' or 'it's best to do X.' It's used to state that a particular course of action or condition is the most advisable or ideal, often for safety or preparedness.

Examples

保険に入っておくに越したことはない。

It's best to get insurance.

Common mistakes

Using it to express a simple preference; it carries a stronger nuance of 'it's prudent to' or 'it's safest to'.

Tip

Associate 越したことはない with 'not being surpassed' by any other option, highlighting its superiority.

More JLPT N2 grammar

See ~に越したことはない in real Japanese

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