GrammarJLPT N5
nothing but
Expression

Definitions

  1. 1. nothing but
A grammatical pattern meaning "only" or "nothing but," used to express a limitation, always paired with a negative verb ending. Unlike だけ, this pattern carries a nuance of "only this and nothing more," often implying that the amount or option is insufficient or restrictive.

Grammar

Grammar lesson content not found for this point.

Example sentences

Sentence 1

If you're in that much of a hurry, you'll just have to run!

Sentence 2

The rain's too heavy — we'll just have to wait.

Sentence 3

We're out of time, so we have to decide now.

Sentence 4

With results like these, all you can do is laugh!

Sentence 5

There's only one reason to stop here.