〜もさることながら
N1X matters too, of course, but (Y even more)
Formation: N + もさることながら
〜もさることながら grants that X is important or impressive, then shifts the weight to Y, which the speaker sees as just as important or more so: 'X is one thing, but Y in particular...'. The tone is evaluative and usually positive or neutral, and the second half often contains も or a phrase such as が大きい, が重要だ or が際立つ. It is formal and typical of writing, reviews, speeches and commentary. Compare 〜はもちろん, which is more everyday and treats X as obvious before adding Y. 〜ばかりか and 〜のみならず mean 'not only X but also Y', with Y often more surprising, sometimes negative. 〜もさることながら is specifically about putting the emphasis on the second item.
Examples
- この店は、味もさることながら盛り付けの美しさが際立つ。
The food here tastes great, of course, but what really stands out is the beautiful presentation. - 本人の努力もさることながら、家族の支えが大きかった。
His own effort counted, of course, but his family's support made a big difference. - 新製品は性能もさることながら、価格の安さで注目を集めている。
The new product performs well, but it is attracting attention above all for its low price.
In real texts 0 occurrence(s)
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