Noun なりとも JLPT N1 Very formal / literary

~nari tomo

Indicates even a small amount or degree; 'at least', 'even a little'.

Formal, literary "at least/even a little" - emphasizes a minimal but real amount.

Formation

Noun + なりとも

Noun + なりとも is used to show that even a small amount or degree is valuable or needed. It translates as 'at least' or 'even a little' in English.

時間が限られているので、一時間なりとも練習すべきだ。

Since time is limited, you should practice for at least an hour.

Jikan ga kagirarete iru node, ichi-jikan nari tomo renshuu subeki da.
彼には一言なりとも謝罪の言葉を聞きたい。

I’d like to hear at least a word of apology from him.

Kare ni wa hitokoto nari tomo shazai no kotoba o kikitai.
このプロジェクトには、一人なりともメンバーが必要だ。

We need at least one member for this project.

Kono purojekuto ni wa, hitori nari tomo membaa ga hitsuyou da.
あなたには、一言なりとも感謝の言葉を述べたい。

I want to offer at least a word of gratitude to you.

Anata ni wa, hitokoto nari tomo kansha no kotoba o nobetai.