JLPT N5 grammar

〜くらい／ぐらいmeaning and usage

Meaning

Expresses a degree, as in “to the extent that”; an approximate amount, as in “about”; or a minimum, as in “at least.”

This point is also listed at N3 · N2.

How to form it

  • number + counterくらい/ぐらい
  • nounくらい/ぐらい
  • verb (plain form)/い-adjectiveくらい/ぐらい

How it is used

After a number it means “about”; after a noun or clause it shows extent (“so … that”) or a minimum (“at least”). 「くらい」 and 「ぐらい」 are interchangeable; for “around” a clock time, 「ごろ」 is more usual.

Examples

  1. あなたには感謝してもしきれないくらいだ。

    I cannot thank you enough.

  2. 毎日一時間ぐらい歩きます。

    I walk for about an hour every day.

  3. 遅くなる時は、電話くらいしてください。

    When you're going to be late, at least give me a call.

About the example Here くらい marks degree: 感謝してもしきれないくらい says the speaker is so grateful that thanking the listener would never be enough.