数量は | Grammar

Structure

[number] + [counter] + は

Description

は straight after a number and its counter means "at least": the speaker gives a figure they are sure of, and the real one may be higher, but not lower. The noun being counted keeps its own particle; は goes on the number.

に2。

I study for at least two hours every day.

。

This project will take at least three days.

。

At least fifty people will probably come to the party.

。

I've learned at least 500 kanji.

It fits targets and wishes as well as counts and estimates.

に2。

Please drink at least two litres of water a day.

。

I want to save at least 100,000 yen for the trip.

は or も

Both follow a number. は sets a minimum and sounds matter-of-fact; も says the number is surprisingly large.

。

I read it at least three times.

。

I read it three whole times!

With a negative

With a negative verb, the figure is not reached: "not even", "less than".

。

It takes less than ten minutes to the station.

。

Fewer than a hundred people came.

Examples

いち1。

You should exercise at least one hour every day.

に2。

This job will probably take at least two weeks.

。

You should bring at least 5,000 yen.

に2。

Please drink at least two liters of water a day.

。

At that restaurant, you'll spend at least 3,000 yen.

。

I think at least 20 people will come to the party.

。

I've memorized at least 500 kanji.

はち8。

I slept at least eight hours yesterday.

。

I've watched that movie at least three times.

いち1。

It takes at least one hour from here to the airport.

。

I want to read at least ten books during summer vacation.

。

There are at least 30 chairs in this room.

。

I want to save at least 100,000 yen for the trip.

。

We need at least 5 people for this project.

References

The Particle Wa は I the Topic Contrast Markerimabi.org