Grammar Info

N2 Lesson 1: 7/23

せめてAt least

Structure

せめて + Phrase

Details

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About せめて

Coming from the verb ()める, meaning to have the 'onus to do (A)', せめて is an adverb that indicates that doing (A) is the minimum expected in order to achieve some desired outcome. It is often translated simply as 'at least' in English.

せめて usually alters the meaning of an entire phrase, and will appear at the beginning of sentences.

Stemming from ()める, this structure usually implies that there is some sort of onus or responsibility to do (A), rather than (A) simply being a minimum amount. Due to this, it is often used with grammar points that express desire or opinions such as たい, ほしい, てほしい, べき, and others.

Examples

--:--

    せめてドアくらい()めて()しかった...。

    I would have liked them to at least close the door...

    (おや):「せめておかずだけでも()べて。」

    Mother: 'At least eat your sides or something.'

    せめて着替(きが)えさせてもらえませんか?びしょ()れなんです。

    Would you at least let me change? I am soaked.

    いい(あん)ではなくてもいいので、せめてアイデアだけでも()してください。

    Since it is okay even if it isn't a good idea, please at least submit an idea.

    楽器(がっき)寄贈(きぞう)させてください。せめてもの恩返(おんがえ)しです。

    Please let me give you an instrument. It is at least a repayment of the favor.

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