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The height of; utmost
Definition
The grammar pattern "N + の至りだ" is used to express being in the highest state of an emotion, such as honor, shame, or gratitude, in very formal settings. It emphasizes the utmost degree of a particular feeling or situation. This pattern is often used to describe exceptional or extraordinary events that evoke strong emotions. The word "至りだ" is a polite way to express the highest or utmost degree of something, and it is typically used in formal writing or speech.
Structure
| Form | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative or accusative form of a noun | N + の至りだ | 光栄の至りだ (The utmost honor) |
| Nominative or accusative form of a noun | N + の至りだ | 感激の至りだ (The utmost gratitude) |
| Nominative or accusative form of a noun | N + の至りだ | 赤面の至りだ (The utmost shame) |
Examples
このような権威ある賞をいただき、光栄の至りだ。
Kono yū na ken'i aru shō o itadakimasu, hikari no atarashii da.
I was given such an authoritative award, and it's the utmost honor.
このような権威ある賞 (such an authoritative award), をいただき (to receive), 光栄の至りだ (the utmost honor)
大勢の前で大失敗をしてしまい、赤面の至りだ。
Tai-shū no mae de dai shippai o shite shimau, akubun no atarashii da.
I made a huge mistake in front of a large crowd, and it's the utmost shame.
大勢の前で (in front of a large crowd), 大失敗 (huge mistake), 赤面の至りだ (the utmost shame)
憧れの先生にお会いできて、感激の至りだ。
Akogare no sensei ni o ai dekiru, kanjiki no atarashii da.
I met my idol teacher, and it's the utmost gratitude.
憧れの先生 (idol teacher), お会いでき (to meet), 感激の至りだ (the utmost gratitude)
Context
This pattern is typically used in very formal settings, such as in writing or in formal speech. It is not commonly used in casual conversation. The word "至りだ" is a polite way to express the highest or utmost degree of something, and it is often used to describe exceptional or extraordinary events that evoke strong emotions.
Watch out
'No kiwami' is used to express the highest state of a situation, while 'no itari' is used to express the utmost degree of an emotion.
Common adjectives may not convey the same level of formality as formal nouns, and may not be suitable for use with this pattern.
This pattern is typically used in very formal settings, and may not be suitable for use in casual conversation.
Strategy
Be careful to use the correct form of the noun, and to use the polite form of the verb. Also, be aware of the nuances of the pattern and use it in the correct context.
In context
Worked examples drawn from JLPT N1 test-style questions. Each sentence shows N + の至りだ used correctly, with a brief note on what the pattern is doing.
このような権威ある賞をいただき、光栄の至りです。
Pattern used: の至り
'Koei no itari' is a standard formal expression for 'the utmost honor'.
大勢の前で大失敗をしてしまい、赤面の至りだ。
Pattern used: 至り
'Sekimen no itari' means being extremely ashamed/embarrassed.
憧れの先生にお会いできて、感激の至りです。
Pattern used: 至り
Used for deep emotional states in formal language.
Interactive
このような権威ある賞をいただき、光栄______です。
Adaptive practice
Our adaptive engine will quiz you on this grammar pattern and track your progress toward mastery.