〜を皮切りに (〜をかわきりに)

As a starting point; Starting from ~

1. Overview

「〜を皮切りに」 is a Japanese expression used to emphasize that a particular event serves as the starting point for a series of subsequent events. This structure is typically used to describe the sequence of events, indicating that the occurrence of a specific event marks the beginning of a related series of happenings.

2. Structure

• Grammar Structure:

  • Noun + を皮切りに（して）
  • Noun + を皮切りとして

• Explanation:

  • 「皮切り」 originally refers to the "first cut" in surgery and is transformed here to mean "starting point."
  • This structure is used to indicate that a specific event is the beginning of a series of related events.

3. Usage Explanation

• Connection: This expression can only follow a noun, indicating that a series of related events begin with the event denoted by that noun.

• Usage: The grammar typically pairs with nouns that represent time, location, or events, indicating that a sequence of occurrences follows from that event. It is often used to describe positive or favorable events.

• Translation: It emphasizes that a series of interconnected events occurs starting from a particular event, usually with a positive connotation.

4. Similar Grammar

• 〜を契機に: Also indicates a certain event as a starting point but emphasizes the opportunity or trigger aspect.
• 〜をきっかけに: Indicates that a particular event serves as a trigger or inspiration, often leading to new changes or developments.

5. Key Points to Note

• Positive Context: 「〜を皮切りに」 is typically used in positive or favorable contexts to describe a sequence of good events. It is rarely used to express negative cascading events.

• Formal Expression: This expression is relatively formal and is commonly found in written narratives, reports, and news articles.

6. Example Sentences

1. 彼の新作発表を皮切りに、多くの作家が次々と新しい作品を発表した。
   Starting with his new work's announcement, many authors released new works one after another.

2. 東京でのイベントを皮切りに、全国各地で同じようなイベントが開催された。
   With the event in Tokyo as a starting point, similar events were held across the country.

3. その会社は、新製品の発表を皮切りに、急速に成長した。
   The company rapidly grew, starting with the announcement of their new product.

7. Summary

「〜を皮切りに」 is an expression used to describe the initiation of a series of similar events starting from a particular event. It emphasizes the "starting point" of time or events and the cascading development of occurrences. It is usually used in a positive context and is often found in more formal language settings.