がなら (ganara)

Meaning & usage

The pattern repeats the same noun as Noun が Noun なら to say if someone truly lives up to that role, a certain behavior is expected, as in 先生が先生なら. It is used to criticize or demand proper conduct, often with should, must, or a negative consequence. The paired form AがAならBもB, as in 親が親なら子も子, condemns both sides as equally bad or unworthy.

Example sentences 5

1. 先生せんせいが先生せんせいなら生徒せいとを見捨みすてない。

   If you're truly a teacher, you wouldn't abandon your students.

2. 医者が医者なら患者を第一に考える。

   If you're truly a doctor, you'll put your patients first.

3. リーダーがリーダーなら責任を取るべきだ。

   If you're truly a leader, you should take responsibility.

4. 大人が大人なら約束を守るはずだ。

   If you're truly an adult, you'll keep your promises.

5. 友達が友達なら困った時に助けてくれる。

   If they're truly your friends, they'll help you when you're in trouble.