What it means
こそ is an emphatic particle that highlights the preceding word or phrase as especially important, appropriate, or certain. It often conveys meanings such as “this time for sure,” “precisely,” or “you, in particular.” It can follow nouns, pronouns, and certain clause-based expressions such as からこそ. The sentence ending determines whether the overall sentence is familiar or polite; こそ itself does not change.
Usage note
こそ can appear in specialized patterns such as からこそ and てこそ, whose meanings are more specific than simple emphasis. In particular, てこそ often means that something is possible or meaningful only after a condition is met, so it should not automatically be interpreted as ordinary emphasis.
How to use it
今回こそ計画を実現したいです。
This time, I really want to realize the plan.
彼こそこの仕事に最適です。
He, in particular, is the best person for this job.
彼が支えてくれたからこそ、最後まで頑張れました。
Precisely because he supported me, I was able to persevere until the end.
今回こそ計画を実現したい。
This time, I really want to realize the plan.
彼こそこの仕事に最適だ。
He, in particular, is the best person for this job.
彼が支えてくれたからこそ、最後まで頑張れた。
Precisely because he supported me, I was able to persevere until the end.
Example sentences
今度こそ、資格試験に合格したいです。
This time for sure, I want to pass the certification exam.
困ったときこそ、落ち着いて状況を確認しましょう。
It is precisely when you are in trouble that you should calmly check the situation.
朝の散歩こそ、忙しい毎日に必要な習慣だと思