Meaning & usage
もさることながら acknowledges that something is already notable, then shifts focus to something else that is even more striking. It is used when both points are true, but the speaker wants to emphasize the second one as the main point. It follows a noun directly, as in 味もさることながら or 高さもさることながら, often with nouns expressing degree like 速さ or 美しさ. The expression is formal and common in writing, and the clause after it should present the stronger evaluation.
Example sentences 8
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彼の料理の腕前もさることながら、盛り付けの美しさには驚かされた。
His cooking skills are impressive, but the beauty of his plating amazed me even more.
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この街の物価の高さもさることながら、家賃の高さは深刻だ。
Prices in this city are high, but the cost of rent is even more serious.
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彼女の歌唱力もさることながら、ステージでの存在感が際立っていた。
Her singing ability is remarkable, but her stage presence stood out even more.
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翻訳の正確さもさることながら、その読みやすさが評価されている。
The accuracy of the translation is valued, but its readability is praised even more.
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味もさることながら、香りがすばらしい。
The taste is great, but the aroma is even more wonderful.
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速さもさることながら、正確さが光る。
Not only is the speed impressive, but the accuracy stands out even more.
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安さもさることながら、品質が良い。
The low price is notable, but the quality is even better.
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暑さもさることながら、湿気がつらい。
The heat is tough, but the humidity is even worse.
In past JLPT papers
This came up in 2 past exam questions.
