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JLPT N1 Very formal / literary

A nari B nari

Lists alternatives of the same kind; 'either A or B', 'A or B, for example'.

Formal, literary "either A or B, for example" - lists representative alternatives of the same kind.

Formation

Explanation

The pattern AなりBなり is used to suggest alternatives or options, usually of the same category. It can be translated as 'whether A or B' or 'A or B, for example'.

Example sentences

  • Do you have any hobbies, such as movies or music?

    Eiga nari, ongaku nari, nanika shumi wa arimasu ka?

  • Please give me something to drink, like tea or coffee.

    Koucha nari, koohii nari, nanika nomimono o kudasai.

  • Please eat something—bread, onigiri, or whatever you’d like.

    Pan nari, onigiri nari, nanika tabete kudasai.

  • Please come by either taxi or bus.

    Takushii nari, basu nari ni notte kite kudasai.

Regardless (Whether A Or B)