Core Function
くらい/ぐらい expresses approximation or extent - "about" or "approximately".
Main Uses
1. Approximate Quantity
10個くらい - "about 10"
1時間くらい - "about 1 hour"
100円くらい - "about 100 yen"
三日くらい - "about 3 days"
2. Extent/Degree
死ぬくらい疲れた
"tired to death" (exaggeration)
泣きたいくらい嬉しい
"so happy I could cry"
3. Minimum Expectation "At Least"
これくらいできる
"can at least do this much"
挨拶くらいしなさい
"at least say hello"
くらい vs ぐらい
Same meaning, ぐらい slightly more casual:
10個くらい ✓
10個ぐらい ✓
Both mean "about 10"
Use either - personal preference.
Common Patterns
[Number]くらい
10個くらい - "about 10"
[Extent]くらい
これくらい - "this much"
[Verb potential]くらい
できるくらい - "to the extent can do"
Key Takeaways
✓ Approximation "about"
✓ Extent/degree
✓ Minimum expectation
✓ くらい = ぐらい (same meaning)
Related: