〜くらいなら

If... it would be better to...; Rather than...

1. Overview

「〜くらいなら」 is a grammatical structure used to express comparisons and choices. It often indicates that instead of choosing a certain option, it would be better to choose another one.

2. Structure

• Verb (dictionary form) + くらいなら
• Noun + くらいなら
• Adjective (plain form) + くらいなら

3. Usage Explanation

• Indicating Choice:
  This structure is used to convey that rather than choosing a certain situation or action, it would be better to opt for another, more favorable choice.

• Expressing Negative Attitude:
  It often reflects the speaker's negative stance toward a situation, emphasizing its disadvantages.

• English Translation:
  It can be translated as "If... it would be better to...", "Rather than...", or "I would rather... than...".

4. Example Sentences

1. そんな仕事を続けるくらいなら、辞めた方がいい。
   Rather than continuing such a job, you should quit.

2. 行くくらいなら、家にいたほうが楽だ。
   If you’re going to go, it would be more comfortable to stay home.

3. 彼に頼むくらいなら、自分でやったほうが早い。
   If you’re going to ask him for help, it’s faster to do it yourself.

4. その映画を見るくらいなら、他の本を読んだほうがいい。
   Rather than watching that movie, you should read another book.

5. こんな天気なら、外に出るくらいなら家で休んでいる。
   If the weather is like this, I would rather rest at home than go outside.

5. Key Points to Note

• Negative Choice:
  「〜くらいなら」 emphasizes that instead of choosing a certain situation, it would be better to select another option.

• Applicable Contexts:
  Suitable for informal and conversational contexts, it expresses personal opinions and choices.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜よりは: Indicates superiority of one option over another.
  • Example: 彼と話すよりは、メールしたほうがいい。
    Rather than talking to him, it’s better to send an email.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜方がましだ: Indicates a better choice among multiple options.
  • Example: そんなことをするくらいなら、何もしない方がましだ。
    Rather than doing that, it’s better to do nothing at all.

8. Summary

「〜くらいなら」 is used to express that when faced with a choice, rather than opting for a less favorable option, it would be better to choose another. It emphasizes the speaker's negative attitude toward a situation and is an important structure for conveying personal opinions.