Processing keyword: A。しかも B。(A. Shikamo B.)
Japanese Grammar Point: A。しかも B。(A. Shikamo B.)
1. Introduction
The conjunction しかも (shikamo) is used in Japanese to add information to a previous statement, emphasizing that the added information is notable or unexpected. It can be translated as "moreover," "furthermore," "what's more," or "on top of that" in English.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
しかも is used to connect two sentences or clauses, where the second part (B) adds additional information to the first part (A), often intensifying or emphasizing the preceding statement.
- English equivalents: "Moreover," "Furthermore," "What's more," "On top of that"
Structure
The basic structure of using しかも is:
A。しかも、B。
- A: An initial statement or fact.
- しかも: Conjunction meaning "moreover" or "what's more."
- B: Additional information that adds to or emphasizes A.
Formation Diagram
[Sentence A]。しかも、[Sentence B]。
3. Comparative Analysis
Similar Grammar Points
| Grammar Point | Meaning | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| さらに | "Furthermore," "In addition" | Adds more information, often used formally |
| その上 | "Moreover," "Besides that" | Adds information, can suggest increasing degree |
| それに | "Moreover," "Besides" | Adds information, often used in spoken language |
| おまけに | "To make matters worse/better" | Adds information, often with an unexpected or negative tone |
- Differences:
- しかも emphasizes that the additional information is significant or unexpected.
- さらに often adds more of the same kind of information.
- おまけに often implies that the addition is either beneficial or detrimental.
4. Examples in Context
Example 1: Positive Addition
Sentence:
- 彼は有名な歌手だ。しかも、作曲もできる。
- Kare wa yūmei na kashu da. Shikamo, sakkyoku mo dekiru.
- He is a famous singer. What's more, he can also compose music.
Example 2: Emphasizing Unexpected Information
Sentence:
- 昨日は雨だった。しかも、雷まで鳴った。
- Kinō wa ame datta. Shikamo, kaminari made natta.
- Yesterday, it rained. Moreover, there was even thunder.
Example 3: Formal Context
Sentence:
- この商品は質が高い。しかも、価格も手頃だ。
- Kono shōhin wa shitsu ga takai. Shikamo, kakaku mo tegoro da.
- This product is high quality. Furthermore, it's reasonably priced.
Example 4: Negative Context
Sentence:
- 彼は約束を忘れた。しかも、連絡もしなかった。
- Kare wa yakusoku o wasureta. Shikamo, renraku mo shinakatta.
- He forgot the appointment. On top of that, he didn't even contact me.
Example 5: Casual Conversation
Sentence:
- あのレストランは美味しいよ。しかも、サービスもいい。
- Ano resutoran wa oishii yo. Shikamo, sābisu mo ii.
- That restaurant is delicious. Plus, the service is good.
5. Cultural Notes
Levels of Politeness
- しかも is fairly neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
- It is appropriate for written and spoken language.
Idiomatic Expressions
While しかも itself isn't part of an idiomatic expression, it's often used in literature and speeches to build emphasis and persuade the audience by stacking points.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
- Mistake: Using しかも without proper context, leading to awkward sentences.
- Incorrect Example: 天気はいい。しかも、朝ごはんを食べた。
- Explanation: The two sentences are unrelated; しかも is best used when B adds to or emphasizes A.
Tips
- Ensure that Sentence B adds meaningful information to Sentence A.
- Use しかも when you want to emphasize that the additional information is significant.
Mnemonic Device
- しかも sounds like "She come more" → Think "There's more to come."
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- しかも is a conjunction meaning "moreover" or "what's more."
- It connects two sentences where the second adds significant information to the first.
- Used in both formal and informal contexts.
Quick Recap Quiz
- What does しかも mean in English?
- Answer: "Moreover," "Furthermore," "What's more"
- Is しかも appropriate for formal writing?
- Answer: Yes, it's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
- Choose the correct usage of しかも:
a) 今日は暑い。しかも、私は学生です。
b) 彼女はピアノが弾ける。しかも、ギターも上手だ。
- Answer: b) 彼女はピアノが弾ける。しかも、ギターも上手だ。
By understanding and practicing しかも, you can improve the flow of your sentences and make your Japanese sound more natural and persuasive.