あまり

• Reading: あまり
• Romaji: amari
• Pronunciation: /a.ma.ɾi/

Meaning

Not much; not very (with negatives). Also: remainder; surplus; too much.

Most commonly used with negative verb forms to mean 'not very' or 'not much' (あまり好きじゃない = don't like it much). Can also mean 'too much' or 'excessively' in positive constructions (あまりの暑さ = excessive heat). The kanji form 余り is used but hiragana is more common.

Examples

1. このドラマはあまりおもしろくないです。 This show isn't very interesting.
2. 昨日はあまり寝ていません。 I didn't sleep much last night.
3. あまり心配しないでください。 Please don't worry too much.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, opinions, advice

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From the kanji 余り, where 余 means 'surplus' or 'excess.' The original meaning of 'remainder' extended to express degree in negative contexts.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal