even
Verb Dictionary Form +
The particle
Verb Dictionary Form
When used with verbs of thinking or feeling, it indicates that the mere act of doing so triggers a reaction. In negative contexts, it means 'not even'.
その事故を想像する
Just imagining that accident is scary.
優勝できるとは夢に見る
I didn't even dream that I would win.
Suru Verb Stem +
Used with the verb stem of a suru verb or specific verbal phrases to indicate that an action does not occur at all, often emphasizing a lack of expected reaction.
彼は驚きの表情を見せ
He didn't even show a hint of surprise.
その噂は耳に聞き
The news did not even reach my ears.
This is a formal and literary expression. It is most commonly used with specific verbs related to mental activities like 'to imagine' (想像する), 'to think' (考える), or 'to dream' (夢に見る). When used in a negative sentence, it emphasizes that even the smallest action does not occur.