～こそ JLPT N3

Formation

Noun + こそ, (Verb-て + こそ)

Explanation

The ～こそ grammar point is used to emphasize the importance, uniqueness, or the most suitable thing or person in a specific situation. It can be translated as 'precisely', 'exactly', or 'it is...' in English. In practice, it most often appears after a noun (e.g. 今日こそ), or with verbs in the て-form (e.g. 頑張ってこそ).

Example sentences

• 今日こそ勉強しなければなりません。

  Today, of all days, I must study.

  Kyou koso benkyou shinakereba narimasen.

• あなたこそ私の一番の友達です。

  You are precisely my best friend.

  Anata koso watashi no ichiban no tomodachi desu.

• お金がないことこそ幸せの秘訣ではないか。

  Isn't not having money exactly the key to happiness?

  O-kane ga nai koto koso shiawase no hiketsu de wa nai ka.

• 彼こそまさにプロの歌手のように歌える。

  He can sing precisely like a professional singer.

  Kare koso masani puro no kashu no you ni utaeru.