JLPT N1

~を皮切りに

Starting with, beginning with, taking as a start

Structure

Nouns (event/action) + を皮切りに (して/として)

How it works

This phrase is used to mark the beginning of a series of actions or events, indicating that the initial event serves as the trigger or starting point for what follows. It suggests a progression or development.

Examples

コンサートは東京公演を皮切りに、全国ツアーが始まった。

Starting with the Tokyo performance, the concert began its national tour.

Common mistakes

Using it for a single, isolated event. It must imply that more events similar in nature will follow.

Tip

Visualize the 'peeling off' of layers, starting with the first. '皮切り' literally means 'cutting the skin' or 'beginning'.

More JLPT N1 grammar

See ~を皮切りに in real Japanese

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