しかもWhat's more; on top of that
しかも adds a second fact that makes the first assessment more impressive, serious, surprising, or persuasive. It often corresponds to “what’s more,” “and on top of that,” or “not only that.”
How the two facts work together
The second fact should raise the force of the first. If the first point creates a favorable impression, the added point usually makes that impression even better; if the first point is a problem, the added point usually makes the situation worse. The second detail can be unexpected, but it still supports the same overall conclusion.
Positive and negative additions
Notice how the added fact strengthens the assessment already established.
In conversation
この店、いつも混んでいるね。
This place is always crowded, isn’t it?
Analyzeうん。しかも、今日は一時間待ちだって。
Yeah. And on top of that, they say it’s a one-hour wait today.
AnalyzeThe one-hour wait is not merely another fact; it makes the problem notably worse.
Choosing among additive connectors
しかも draws attention to how notable or forceful the added fact is. その上 can simply accumulate another supporting point, while さらに often presents a further stage or increase more neutrally.
More examples
このアプリは操作が簡単で、しかも無料で使える。
This app is easy to use, and what’s more, it’s free.
Analyze彼の説明は正確で、しかも初心者にも分かりやすい。
His explanations are accurate and, what’s more, easy for beginners to understand.
Analyze会場は狭い。しかも、空調まで故障していた。
The venue was cramped. On top of that, even the air conditioning was broken.
Analyzeその仕事は責任が重く、しかも締め切りが厳しい。
That job carries a lot of responsibility, and on top of that, the deadlines are tight.
Analyzeこの素材は軽い。しかも、熱にも強い。
This material is lightweight. What’s more, it is resistant to heat.
Analyze私たちは予約なしで入れたし、しかも窓側の席に案内された。
We got in without a reservation, and what’s more, we were shown to a window seat.
Analyze