さえ

particle

even

Adds the meaning of 'even' to a noun or noun phrase, often implying an extreme or unexpected case. Can be used with も for emphasis (さえも).

• 彼かれは自じ分ぶんの名な前まえさえ書かけなかった。

  He couldn't even write his own name.

• そんなことは子こ供どもでさえ知しっている。

  Even a child knows that.

particle

only; just; as long as

Used in conditional clauses (～ば/～たら + さえ) to indicate the minimum condition needed for a result. Often translates to 'if only' or 'as long as'.

• お金かねさえあれば、何なんでもできる。

  If only I had money, I could do anything.

• 天てん気きさえよければ、ピクニックに行いく。

  As long as the weather is good, we'll go on a picnic.

particle

besides; on top of that; what's more

Adds an additional, often negative, element to a situation. Commonly used with に (さえに) or in the pattern ～に加えて～さえ. Implies 'not only ... but also ...'.

• 雨あめが降ふっているのに、風かぜさえ強つよくなってきた。

  It's raining, and on top of that, the wind is getting stronger.

• 彼かれは遅ち刻こくした上うえに、宿しゅく題だいさえ忘わすれた。

  Not only was he late, but he even forgot his homework.