よほど
Meanings
adverb, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', na-adjective
Expresses a high degree or extent, often with a nuance of 'more than expected' or 'considerably'. Used adverbially or with の/な to modify nouns.
See also: よっぽど
He must have been very tired today; he went straight to bed.
Unless something quite unusual happens, he is never late.
almost; just about to; very nearly
Indicates that something was close to happening or almost the case. Often used with verbs in the negative or conditional to mean 'nearly did something' or 'was on the verge of'.
See also: よっぽど
I was so happy I almost shouted out loud.
I very nearly refused, but in the end I accepted.
Usage patterns
- よほどの〈事〉がない限りunless something highly unusual happens
Unless something highly unusual happens, he won't be late.
- よほど〈動詞〉うと思ったがwas on the verge of doing ~ but (held back)
I was on the verge of getting angry and leaving, but I held back.
- よほど〈形容詞〉のだろうmust be quite ~ (expressing inference of a high degree)
He must be quite tired; he's dozing off.
- よほどの〈人〉でなければunless one is quite an exceptional person
Unless you're truly exceptional, you can't pass that exam.