に限(かぎ)ってParticularly when, Those who, Only when

The expression に限(かぎ)って in Japanese is a phrase that has three primary uses, the first is to show that (B) is an unbelievable thing about (A), the second is to express that something is limited to (A), and the third highlights that in most cases for (A), (B). Depending on the particular nuance that is being used, common translations include 'particularly when (A), (B)', 'those who (A), (B)', and 'only when (A), (B)'.

This structure is comprised of に, and the て-form of the う-Verb 限(かぎ)る 'to limit'. Let's look at a few examples of each potential meaning.

First, when something about (A) is unbelievable due to what is either expected or previously known.

Second, when something is limited to (A).

Third, when (B) is true in most cases concerning (A).

While each of these uses can roughly be translated as 'only when', it will be important to keep all three meanings in mind when interpreting sentences that use に限(かぎ)って.