1.
considerably, fairly, quite
Indicates a significant degree or extent of something. Used to express that something has changed or progressed noticeably.
大分 emphasizes that something has reached a notable degree or that a change is significant.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 大分〜なった (has become quite ~)
- 大分前に (quite a while ago)
- 大分違う (quite different)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- かなり: similar meaning, slightly more formal
- ずいぶん: emphasizes surprise at the degree
- なかなか: fairly, rather (often with positive evaluation)
Note: Can also be written in hiragana as だいぶ. The kanji 大分 refers to Oita Prefecture.