まで

Alternative writings:
Frequency:
1

Particle indicating up to a certain time; until/till (a point in time).

ParticleUsually Kana

Examples

図書館は午後五時まで開いています。

The library is open until 5 p.m.

宿題は明日までに提出してください。

Please submit the homework by tomorrow.

試験期間は来月末まで続く。

The exam period continues until the end of next month.

2

Particle meaning 'to' (a place or person); as far as / up to (a location or recipient).

ParticleUsually Kana

Examples

駅まで歩いて行った。

I walked to the station.

この手紙を彼まで渡してください。

Please deliver this letter to him.

川の向こうまで泳いだことがある。

I have swum across to the other side of the river.

3

Particle indicating extent or degree (to the extent that; so much that; even).

ParticleUsually Kana

Examples

彼の行動は驚いて言葉を失うまでだった。

His actions left me so surprised I was at a loss for words.

悲しくて涙が出るまで思い出した。

I remembered it until I was moved to tears.

彼女は詳しく説明してくれて、最後には私でも理解できるまでになった。

She explained it so thoroughly that even I came to understand it.

4

Used in expressions like '〜までだ'/'〜までのことだ' to mean 'only; merely; all one can do is...'.

ParticleUsually Kana

Examples

私にできることは謝るまでだ。

All I can do is apologize.

頼めるのはこれまでだ。あとは自分で頑張るしかない。

This is as far as I can ask; from now on you have to do your best yourself.

その話は冗談までのことだ。

That matter was merely a joke.

Word Relationships

Antonym