![[JLPT N1 Grammar] ～にあって – In the Context of / During / Under (Certain Circumstances)](https://i0.wp.com/www.jlptglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/N1.png?fit=1024%2C1024&ssl=1)
Japanese grammar at the N1 level can be nuanced and highly contextual. One such expression is ～にあって, which is often used in formal or written Japanese to indicate a specific time, situation, or condition in which something occurs. In this article, we’ll break down its meaning, usage, nuances, and give you plenty of real-world examples.
???? Meaning of ～にあって
～にあって can be translated as:
- In the situation of…
- During…
- Under the circumstances of…
- At the time of…
It is used to describe a condition or situation that has a significant influence on the event that follows. This grammar point often appears in formal writing such as news articles, essays, speeches, and official reports.
???? Structure
[Noun] + にあって
The noun usually refers to a specific time period, situation, condition, or environment.
???? Examples
Example 1:
戦時中にあっては、国民の生活は極めて厳しかった。
(Senjichū ni atte wa, kokumin no seikatsu wa kiwamete kibishikatta.)
→ During the war, people’s lives were extremely harsh.
Explanation: “戦時中” (during the war) sets the context. The phrase indicates that the war greatly affected daily life.
Example 2:
急速な経済成長期にあって、多くの企業が海外進出を果たした。
(Kyūsoku na keizai seichō-ki ni atte, ōku no kigyō ga kaigai shinshutsu o hatashita.)
→ During the period of rapid economic growth, many companies expanded overseas.
Explanation: The rapid economic growth provided the context or environment in which expansion became possible.
Example 3:
非常時にあっても、冷静な判断が求められる。
(Hijōji ni atte mo, reisei na handan ga motomerareru.)
→ Even in an emergency situation, calm judgment is required.
Explanation: Emphasizes contrast. Despite being in a crisis, calmness is necessary.
Example 4:
困難な状況にあって、彼は希望を失わなかった。
(Konnan na jōkyō ni atte, kare wa kibō o ushinawanakatta.)
→ Even under difficult circumstances, he never lost hope.
Explanation: Emphasizes perseverance in adversity.
???? Similar Grammar Patterns
| Grammar | Meaning | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| ～において | At / In (formal place or time) | More neutral or general. ～にあって emphasizes context or condition. |
| ～中（ちゅう） | During / While | More casual and used for time durations. |
| ～に際して | On the occasion of / When | Often used for important one-time events. |
| ～のもとで | Under (someone’s leadership, rule) | Emphasizes control or influence from someone/something. |
???? Usage Tips
- Often used in formal or written Japanese.
- The subject matter is usually social, political, historical, or emotional.
- Can be followed by 「も」 to express contrast (e.g., にあっても).
- Not typically used in casual spoken conversation.
???? Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| JLPT Level | N1 |
| Formality | High (used in writing, speeches, reports) |
| Meaning | In (the situation of), Under (circumstances), During |
| Usage | Indicates a specific time, condition, or environment influencing an action |
???? Practice Time
Try making your own sentences with ～にあって! Here are some prompts to help you:
- Describe a historical event and its context.
- Talk about how you stay motivated in difficult times.
- Write a formal sentence about the current global situation.
I’m a software engineer based in Japan, with experience in developing web and mobile applications. I’m passionate about technology, especially in DevOps, AI, and app development using platforms like AWS, Flutter, and Node.js. My goal is to build a website that shares knowledge about the Japanese language and IT, helping everyone learn and grow more easily in the digital era.
