〜あまり
Formation
Meaning
Indicates that because a state or feeling is so extreme, an unusual or unintended result follows. It often expresses that the degree of something went beyond the normal limit.
Note
A literary expression used to describe a state or emotion that is so intense it leads to an extreme, often unintended or negative result. It emphasizes that the boundaries of normalcy have been exceeded. It is frequently used with nouns of emotion (e.g., 緊張, 驚き, 喜び) or verbs expressing excessive action (e.g., 考えすぎる).
Examples
考えすぎたあまり、夜も眠れなくなってしまった。
Because I thought about it too much, I ended up being unable to sleep at night.
彼女を思うあまり、つい厳しいことを言ってしまった。
Because I care about her so much, I accidentally said something harsh.
忙しいあまり、食事をするのも忘れていた。
I was so busy that I even forgot to eat.
うれしいあまりに、思わず飛び上がった。
I was so happy that I jumped up without thinking.
不安なあまり、何度も確認してしまった。
I was so anxious that I ended up checking it many times.
残念なあまり、一言も話せなかった。
I was so disappointed that I couldn't say a single word.
緊張のあまり、手が震えていた。
I was so nervous that my hands were shaking.
驚きのあまりに、声が出なかった。
I was so surprised that I couldn't even speak.