〜ならまだしも

If it were ~, it would still be acceptable; but...

1. Overview

「〜ならまだしも」 is a grammatical structure used to express that a certain situation is somewhat acceptable, but another situation is unacceptable. It contrasts a more tolerable circumstance with one that is viewed unfavorably, often conveying criticism or dissatisfaction regarding the latter.

2. Structure

• Grammar Structure:

  • Noun + ならまだしも
  • Verb (plain form) + ならまだしも

• Explanation:

  • 「〜ならまだしも」 indicates that "if it were ~, it would still be acceptable," leading into a scenario that is tolerable, followed by a statement about a worse situation that is unacceptable.

3. Usage Explanation

• Contrast: This structure highlights a contrast between two situations, where the first is somewhat acceptable and the second is unacceptable or difficult to tolerate.

• Critical Tone: It is often used to express dissatisfaction or criticism, especially when the actual situation is much worse than the acceptable scenario.

• English Translation: This can be translated as "If it were... that would be fine, but..."

4. Example Sentences

1. 1日ぐらいならまだしも、1週間も休むなんて無理だ。
   If it were just one day off, that would be fine, but taking a week off is impossible.

2. 簡単なミスならまだしも、大きな失敗をした。
   A simple mistake would be acceptable, but he made a big error.

3. 英語ならまだしも、フランス語での説明は理解できない。
   If it were in English, that would be fine, but I can't understand explanations in French.

5. Key Points to Note

1. Emphasis on the Worse Situation: The focus of 「〜ならまだしも」 is on highlighting that the subsequent situation is worse than the first, expressing dissatisfaction or criticism about the reality.

2. Usage Context: This expression is commonly used in spoken or informal contexts to convey the speaker's displeasure regarding an undesirable situation.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜どころか: Used to express a completely opposite situation and is stronger than 「〜ならまだしも」.
  • Example: 風邪どころか、肺炎になった。
    (Not only did he have a cold, but he actually developed pneumonia.)

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜どころではない: Indicates that a situation is far beyond what was expected, usually suggesting that the situation is worse.
  • Example: 遊びに行くどころではない。
    (There's no time to go out and have fun at all!)

8. Summary

「〜ならまだしも」 is used to compare and express dissatisfaction, indicating that "if it were ~, it would still be acceptable, but...". It emphasizes an unacceptable reality in contrast to a more tolerable situation.