だけ | Grammar

Structure

Verb[plain] + だけ

Adjective + だけ

Noun + だけ

The particle だけ is used to express limitation or exclusivity, meaning "only" or "just."

。

I only drink water.

だけ can be used in both positive and negative sentences. It means "only" and leaves the possibility that other options exist but weren’t chosen.

。

I only drink water (but other options might be available, I just chose water).

しか, on the other hand, can only be used in negative sentences. It emphasizes that there are no other choices or possibilities.

。

I drink nothing but water (implying water is the only option available, and no others exist).

]

。

I only drink tea.

。

This book is written only in Japanese.

。

Only she knows that secret.

。

Please eat as much as you like.

。

We only looked and didn’t buy anything.

。

This problem is just simple.

。

That person only has money.

。

I only watched that movie once.

、。

It’s just quiet today; nothing special is happening.

。

Please speak only in Japanese.

、。

He just said he was busy and did nothing.

、。

That problem is not only difficult but also time-consuming.

。

She is just sitting quietly.

、。

This room is not only spacious but also bright.

でし。

Today, I just slept all day.