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‘Even’ is a very useful little word and the topic of this entry. It usually comes before the word or phrase it modifies, as in the title above. ‘Even’ can come before a noun, or before a verb.

• Even John was late. (Implies : John is usually punctual)
• He even forgot to take his umbrella. (Implies : he forgot various things, including something as important as his umbrella)
• He didn’t even tell me. (Implies : I would usually be the first person he tells)

‘Even’ can also be used with ‘though’. ‘Even though’ is similar in meaning to ‘but’, ‘despite’ or ‘in spite of’ - 「～なのに～」 and it is used at the beginning of a clause. Have a look at these examples :

• Even though they have a lovely big house, they’re not very well-off.

• They have a lovely big house, but they’re not very well-off.
• Despite having a lovely big house, they’re not very well-off.
• In spite of having a lovely big house, they’re not very well-off.

This translation will give you another idea about how to use ‘even’:

• 極端に言うならば、古い木の前で祈る日本人もいる。
• To give an extreme example, some Japanese people will even pray in front of an old tree.

‘Even’ suggests that something or some action is unexpected or more extreme than expected. Read and listen to the following conversations :

• Did you both have a good time at the party?
• Yes, it was great. Tom doesn’t usually enjoy parties, but even he had a good time.

• I’m not having a very good day.
• Oh really? Why not?
• I slept through my alarm this morning and got to work late. Then when I got here I realized I had even forgotten to bring my work bag.

‘Even’ is quite often used in negative sentences to complain that someone didn’t do something that you expected them to do…

• He’s so shy. When I passed him just now he didn’t even say ‘hello’.
• My husband never helps around the house. He doesn’t even put his clothes away himself.

I hope this has given you a feel for how to use the word ‘even’.