GRAMMAR DETAIL
あまり〜ない
Is used with a negative expression to indicate that a degree or frequency is not high.
Examples
私は朝、あまりコーヒーを飲みません。
I do not drink much coffee in the morning.
Words used
最近はあまり外食しない。
I have not eaten out very often lately.
Words used
弟は野菜をあまり食べません。
My younger brother does not eat many vegetables.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure: Use
あまりwith a negative verb, adjective, or similar predicate. - Basic usage:
最近はあまり外食しない。means that eating out is not frequent lately.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- Little versus none at all
あまり飲まないdescribes a low quantity or frequency, while全然飲まないdenies drinking more strongly.あまりalone does not establish that it never happens.
- Where negation appears
- Use the negative appropriate to the predicate, as in
あまり高くないorあまり飲みません. Interpret the degree expression together with the actual negative form.
- Use the negative appropriate to the predicate, as in