GRAMMAR DETAIL
〜くらいなら
Expresses a preference for another action over an undesirable choice.
Examples
あんなに混んだ店で待つくらいなら家で食べたい。
Rather than wait at such a crowded restaurant, I would prefer to eat at home.
Words used
嘘をつくくらいなら、正直に謝りたい。
Rather than lie, I would prefer to apologize honestly.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure: After a dictionary-form verb,
くらいならpresents that action as undesirable and introduces a preferred alternative. - Basic usage:
嘘をつくくらいなら、正直に謝りたい。expresses a preference for apologizing honestly over lying.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- Unlike a neutral condition
待つなら本を読むtakes waiting as a condition.待つくらいなら帰るcompares the options and favors going home over waiting.