〜なりとも

Formation

N1LimitationConcessionFormal/StiffLiteratureBusiness
Dict. Form
Noun
なりとも

Meaning

Used to suggest a minimal option or amount to indicate a request, desire, or evaluation.

Note

Often used with 'at least' (せめて) or 'even if' (たとえ). It emphasizes that even the smallest amount would suffice.

Examples

たとえ冗談なりとも、そんなことは言うべきではない。

Even as a joke, you shouldn't say such things.

お忙しいとは存じますが、一目なりともお会いしたいです。

I know you're busy, but I'd like to see you even for a moment (even a glance).

少しの時間なりとも、一緒にいられたら嬉しいです。

I'd be happy if we could be together even for a short time.

お名前なりとも、教えていただけませんか。

Could you at least tell me your name?

ご意見なりとも、聞かせていただければ幸いです。

I would be grateful if you could at least let me hear your opinion.

些細なことなりとも、お手伝いできることがあればお申し付けください。

If there's even a small thing I can help with, please let me know.

万が一なりとも、失敗は許されない。

Even a one-in-a-million chance of failure is not permitted.

声なりとも聞ければ、安心できるのだが。

I would feel relieved if I could at least hear their voice.

Related Grammar