なかなか

Alternative writings: 中々, 中中, 仲々, 仲仲, 却々, 却却
JLPT:N4
Frequency:
1

Quite; considerably; fairly — used to indicate a fairly high degree (often written in kana).

AdverbNa-AdjectiveUsually Kana

Examples

この映画はなかなか面白かった。

This movie was quite interesting.

彼女の料理はなかなか上手だ。

She is quite good at cooking.

なかなか良いアイデアだと思う。

I think that's a rather good idea.

2

Used with a negative verb to mean 'not readily' or 'by no means'; indicates something does not happen easily.

AdverbUsually Kana

Examples

彼はなかなか来ないので心配だ。

I'm worried because he hasn't shown up yet.

問題はなかなか解決しない。

The problem is not being resolved easily.

このソフトはなかなか起動しないことがある。

This software sometimes takes a long time to start.

3

An old/rare usage meaning the middle or halfway point (middle). Not common in modern usage.

Noun

Examples

物語の中々で大きな転機が訪れる(やや文語的・稀な用法)。

A major turning point comes in the middle of the story (somewhat literary/rare usage).

4

Used in phrases like 'なかなかの〜' to mean fairly good or impressive; indicating someone/something is rather notable.

Noun Taking 'の'Usually Kana

Examples

彼はなかなかの腕前を持ったギタリストだ。

He is a guitarist with quite impressive skills.

なかなかの値段がするけれど、品質は確かだ。

It costs a fair amount, but the quality is reliable.

Word Relationships