くらい

Alternative writings: ぐらい
Frequency:

1Indicates approximate amount or extent (e.g., 'about', 'around').

SuffixParticle

Examples

駅から家まで歩いて10分くらいです。

It's about a 10-minute walk from the station to my house.

このケーキは千円ぐらいしました。

This cake cost around 1,000 yen.

午後3時くらいに戻ります。

I'll be back around 3 PM.

2Indicates degree or extent (e.g., 'to the extent that', 'at least', 'enough that'), used in expressions like 'so... that' or 'at least...'.

SuffixParticle

Examples

驚いて声も出ないくらいだった。

I was so surprised that I couldn't even speak.

そんなに高いなら買わないくらいなら、注文しない。

If it's that expensive, I'd rather not order it.

せめてこれくらいはやってほしい。

I want you to at least do this much.

3Used for comparison or approximation in phrases like 'about as... as' or 'to the extent of...', similar to 'as... as' or 'like'.

SuffixParticle

Examples

彼くらいの年齢の学生が多いクラスだ。

It's a class with many students about his age.

子どもくらいの背の高さだ。

It's about the height of a child.

冗談くらいに受け流しておけばいい。

You should just take it as a joke.