HomeGrammarJLPT N1Verb てこそ (Verb te koso)

Verb てこそ (Verb te koso)

JLPT N1

Explanation

Emphasizes 'only by doing something, a certain result or realization can occur.'

Formation

Detailed explanation

The ~てこそ grammar point is used to highlight that only by performing the verb in て-form can a certain important outcome be achieved or recognized. It often translates as 'only by (doing)' or 'only when (doing).'

Examples

Jissai ni tsukatte koso, sono kachi o rikai dekiru.

You can only understand its value by actually using it.

Jibun de keiken shite koso, taisetsu na koto ga manaberu.

Only by experiencing it yourself can you learn what’s truly important.

Shippai shite koso, seikō no aji ga wakaru.

Only by failing do you really understand the taste of success.

Doryoku shite koso, nanika o nashitogeru koto ga dekiru.

Only through making an effort can you accomplish anything.

Practice

Grammar content sourced from hanabira.org.