〜すら
Formation
N1LimitationLiteraryLiterature
Variations
ですら
Meaning
Used to emphasize that if even a basic or extreme example is the case, then other things are naturally also the case. It often implies surprise, disbelief, or an undesirable situation.
Note
Similar to 'sae' (さえ), but 'sura' is more formal and literary. It is frequently used with negative outcomes or to express amazement.
Examples
忙しくて、食事する時間すら惜しい。
I'm so busy that even the time to eat is precious.
その名前すら忘れてしまった。
I've forgotten even their name.
赤ん坊ですら、それが分かっている。
Even a baby understands that.
プロの選手ですら、その問題を解決できなかった。
Even a professional player couldn't solve that problem.
自分の将来のことすら考えられないほど、今は精一杯だ。
I'm so preoccupied with the present that I can't even think about my own future.
一円すら惜しむような生活をしていた。
I was living a life where I was stingy with even a single yen.