Translation guide
Expresses that an amount, degree, or extent is limited to what is shown or known, often with a sense of 'just this and nothing more.'
The speaker indicates that the quantity or amount is restricted to what is visible or mentioned, often implying it is less than expected.
Literally 'only this much.' Used when pointing to a physical amount or referring to a known quantity. Very common in spoken Japanese.
これだけしかないの?
Is there only this much?
The speaker indicates that an action, state, or quality is limited to a certain degree, often implying 'to this extent only.'
The speaker emphasizes that there is nothing more than what is presented, often with a sense of finality or limitation.
Used with a negative verb to mean 'only this much and nothing more.' The しか~ない pattern is essential for expressing limitation.
私が知っているのはこれだけしかありません。
This is all I know.
今日の仕事はこれだけです。
Today's work is only this much.
Emphasizes the smallness of the amount. 'Tatta' adds a nuance of 'merely' or 'just.'
たったこれだけのことで怒らないで。
Don't get angry over just this much.
Very casual and emphatic, often used when complaining about a tiny amount. Similar to 'this measly bit.'
これっぽっちじゃ足りないよ。
This measly bit isn't enough.
Means 'about this much' or 'to this extent.' Can refer to degree, amount, or level. Often used with gestures.
痛みはこれくらいですか?
Is the pain about this much?
これくらいなら大丈夫です。
If it's only this much, it's okay.
More formal than これくらい. Often used in written or formal contexts to mean 'this degree' or 'this level.'
この程度の誤差は問題ない。
An error of only this degree is not a problem.
Means 'only this and no more,' often implying the last time or final amount. Can carry a nuance of 'this is the end.'
彼に会ったのはこれっきりだ。
I've only met him this once (and never again).