JLPT N3 grammar
Choosing the right "only" — Meaning & Examples
だけ for neutral facts, しか〜ない for limitation/scarcity feelings, ばかり for excess/exclusivity complaints. Same English word, very different Japanese feeling.
Practise Choosing the right "only" in the free app
This point is part of the “"Only" Expressions — だけ・しか・ばかり” lesson in A Star Japanese. Study it with examples, a quiz, flashcards and timed JLPT N3 mock exams. Free on iPhone and Android.
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Related N3 grammar points
From the same lesson: "Only" Expressions — だけ・しか・ばかり
Frequently asked questions
What does Choosing the right "only" mean?
だけ for neutral facts, しか〜ない for limitation/scarcity feelings, ばかり for excess/exclusivity complaints. Same English word, very different Japanese feeling.
Is Choosing the right "only" on the JLPT N3 test?
Choosing the right "only" is taught in the JLPT N3 grammar course in A Star Japanese (lesson “"Only" Expressions — だけ・しか・ばかり”), so it is a pattern learners at this level are expected to recognise. The JLPT does not publish an official grammar list, so treat this as a study guide rather than an official requirement.
How can I practise Choosing the right "only"?
Open the “"Only" Expressions — だけ・しか・ばかり” lesson in the free A Star Japanese app for iPhone and Android. It has examples, a quiz after every lesson, flashcards with spaced repetition and timed JLPT N3 mock exams, with no ads.