〜にもまして

Meaning

This grammar pattern indicates that, compared to a previous time, the degree of something has become even more intense. It can describe skills or momentum that have grown or strengthened, as well as situations that have worsened.

Formation

Examples

1. 応援団は、いつにもまして大きな声でチームを応援している。
   The cheering squad is cheering for the team with even louder voices than usual.

2. 今年は、例年にもまして残暑がきびしくなるでしょう。
   This year, the lingering summer heat will likely be even more severe than in previous years.

3. 親戚の叔母さんが久しぶりに遊びにくる。叔母さんに会えることはもちろんうれしいが、それにも増して楽しみなのは、お土産の手作りアップルパイだ。
   My aunt is coming to visit after a long time. I am of course happy to see her, but what I look forward to even more is the homemade apple pie she brings as a gift.

Summary

• 「〜にもまして」means "more than; even more so than"
• Attaches to nouns
• It is often used with interrogative words such as 「いつ/だれ/どこ/なに」.