Meaning and Usage
「一層」(いっそう) is an adverb used to express a greater degree or extent of something, often translated as "much more" or "still more." It emphasizes that the following adjective or verb is intensified compared to before.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used in both spoken and written Japanese to highlight an increase in intensity, degree, or amount. For example, it can describe stronger feelings, more severe conditions, or deeper understanding.
Collocations and Patterns
- 一層 + adjective/verb (e.g., 一層良くなる): to indicate something becomes much better or more intense.
- 一層注意する: to be even more careful.
- 一層深まる: to deepen even more.
Register and Nuance
「一層」 is neutral and can be used in formal and informal contexts. It is more common in written language but also appears in polite conversation.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 「一層」 with 「もっと」 or 「さらに」, which also mean "more." However, 「一層」 often carries a stronger nuance of significant increase or intensification, and is usually used with adjectives or verbs that describe states or conditions rather than quantities alone.