Processing keyword: ～ところを (〜tokoro wo)
Japanese Grammar Point: ～ところを (〜tokoro wo)
1. Introduction
The grammar point ～ところを (〜tokoro wo) is a useful expression in Japanese that is often used to acknowledge someone's situation or state when making a request, giving an apology, or expressing gratitude. It roughly translates to "despite," "even though," or "while" in English, and it adds a level of politeness and consideration to your speech.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
- ～ところを (〜tokoro wo) is used to indicate that an action occurs despite a certain situation, often acknowledging that you are imposing on someone.
- It expresses appreciation, apology, or acknowledgment of inconvenience caused to someone.
Structure
The structure varies slightly depending on the type of word it attaches to:
| Form | Formation |
|---|---|
| Verb (Casual form) | Verb casual form + ところを |
| い-adjective | い-adjective + ところを |
| な-adjective | な-adjective + な + ところを |
| Noun | Noun + の + ところを |
Formation Diagram
[Clause/Situation] + ところを + [Action/Request/Apology]
Detailed Explanation
- ところ (tokoro) means "place," "point," or "moment."
- By using ～ところを, you highlight the specific situation someone is in.
- を is the object marker particle, connecting the situation to the subsequent action.
- This expression shows consideration for the other person's circumstances.
3. Comparative Analysis
Comparison with ～のに (〜noni)
- ～のに also means "even though" or "despite," but it often expresses regret or criticism.
- ～ところを is more polite and is used to show deference or apologize for an inconvenience.
Grammar Point Usage Politeness Level ～ところを Acknowledging someone's situation politely Polite ～のに Expressing contradiction or regret Neutral
4. Examples in Context
Example Sentences
- お忙しいところをすみません。
- Oisogashii tokoro wo sumimasen.
- "I'm sorry to bother you when you're busy."
- お休みのところをお邪魔しました。
- Oyasumi no tokoro wo ojamashimashita.
- "I'm sorry to have intruded during your break."
- ご多忙のところをわざわざお越しいただきありがとうございます。
- Gotabō no tokoro wo wazawaza okoshi itadaki arigatō gozaimasu.
- "Thank you for taking the trouble to come despite your busy schedule."
- お急ぎのところを申し訳ありませんが、少しお時間をいただけませんか。
- Oisogi no tokoro wo mōshiwake arimasen ga, sukoshi ojikan wo itadakemasen ka.
- "I'm sorry to bother you when you're in a hurry, but could I have a moment of your time?"
- 遅い時間のところをお電話してしまい、失礼しました。
- Osoi jikan no tokoro wo odenwa shite shimai, shitsurei shimashita.
- "I'm sorry for calling you at such a late hour."
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
- Using ～ところを reflects the Japanese cultural emphasis on politeness and respect for others' time and circumstances.
- It is a way to show humility and acknowledge that you may be causing inconvenience.
Levels of Politeness
- Commonly used in formal and business contexts.
- Enhances the politeness level of your speech.
Idiomatic Expressions
- 恐れ入りますがお忙しいところをお願いいたします。
- Osoreirimasu ga oisogashii tokoro wo onegai itashimasu.
- "I'm sorry, but I must ask for your help even though you're busy."
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Common Mistakes
- Omitting the particle を
- Incorrect: Oisogashii tokoro sumimasen.
- Correct: Oisogashii tokoro*を sumimasen.*
- Using with inappropriate situations
- ～ところを should be used when acknowledging the other's situation, not your own.
Tips
- Remember the particle を: It's essential for correct grammar.
- Use appropriate verbs: Often used with verbs like すみません (sumimasen), ありがとうございます (arigatō gozaimasu), or お願いします (onegai shimasu).
- Mind the context: Use it to show respect and consideration.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ～ところを is used to acknowledge someone's situation politely.
- It adds a layer of politeness and respect to your requests or apologies.
- Remember to use the correct form depending on the preceding word type.
Quick Recap Quiz
- How do you say "I'm sorry to bother you when you're in a hurry" using ～ところを?
- Answer: お急ぎのところをすみません。
- Which particle is essential in the ～ところを construction?
- Answer: The particle を.
- Is ～ところを more polite than ～のに?
- Answer: Yes, ～ところを is more polite and used to show deference.
Feel free to review the examples and explanations above to solidify your understanding of ～ところを. Using this grammar point appropriately will enhance your politeness in Japanese communication.