〜ないまでも

Meaning

This pattern compares two matters: even if the desirable first thing cannot be accomplished, at least the standard of the second thing should be met. The first clause describes a higher ideal, and the second clause describes a minimum expectation.

Formation

Examples

1. 全国優勝出来ないまでも、せめて県での優勝を目指したいです。
   Even if we cannot win the national championship, I at least want to aim for the prefectural championship.

2. 慈悪解雇とはいかないまでも、このような不祥事を起こしては、この会社の役員の座に居続けるのはかなり厳しいのではないだろうか。
   Even if it does not go as far as dismissal, having caused such a scandal, would it not be quite difficult to continue holding a board position at this company?

3. 去くぐにはまれ年賀やってるんだ。一等の2億円は当たらないまでも、せめて1万円ぐらいは当たってほしいよ。
   I buy lottery tickets every year. Even if I cannot win the first prize of 200 million yen, I at least want to win around 10,000 yen.

4. 平均点以上とは言わないまでも、せめて次のテストで50点は取らないと、進級できなくなりますよ。
   Even if you cannot score above average, if you do not at least get 50 points on the next test, you will not be able to advance to the next grade.

Summary

• 「〜ないまでも」 means "even if one cannot..., at least..."
• Attaches to verbs in ない-form