さすが

Alternative writings: 流石, , 有繋
JLPT:N2
Frequency:
1

Used to express admiration or that something is as one would expect (e.g., 'as you'd expect' / 'impressive as always').

AdverbNa-AdjectiveUsually Kana

Examples

さすが先生、説明が分かりやすい。

As expected of the teacher — the explanation is easy to understand.

さすがプロだね、仕事が速い。

You're a pro — your work is fast.

試合で勝つとは、さすが強豪校だ。

Winning the match — as you'd expect from a strong team.

2

Used as 'さすがに ...' to indicate 'as expected, but...' often implying limits, surprise, or a reserved judgment (similar to 'after all' or 'still').

AdverbUsually Kana

Examples

さすがに二日続けて徹夜すると疲れる。

After staying up two nights in a row, I'm understandably tired.

さすがにこの値段では買えない。

I certainly can't buy it at this price.

彼女もさすがに驚いたようだ。

She, too, seemed genuinely surprised.

3

Used in constructions like 'さすがの X も ...' to mean 'even X (who is usually outstanding) ...' indicating that even an exceptional person/thing is affected.

AdverbUsually Kana

Examples

さすがの彼もこの問題は解けなかった。

Even he, impressive as he is, couldn't solve this problem.

さすがの名選手も怪我には勝てなかった。

Even a great athlete couldn't overcome the injury.