Processing keyword: ～にもかかわらず (〜ni mo kakawarazu)
Japanese Grammar Point: ～にもかかわらず (〜ni mo kakawarazu)
1. Introduction
In this lesson, we will explore the Japanese grammar point ～にもかかわらず (〜ni mo kakawarazu). This expression is used to indicate that something happens despite a certain circumstance. It conveys a sense of unexpectedness or that an outcome occurs against expectations.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
- Despite
- In spite of
- Although
- Even though
Usage
The phrase ～にもかかわらず is used to express that an action or state occurs regardless of another action, state, or fact that would typically hinder or prevent it. It highlights a contrast between the expected outcome and the actual result.
Structure
The formation of ～にもかかわらず depends on the type of word it attaches to:
Formation Diagram
| Word Type | Formation |
|---|---|
| Verb | Verb (dictionary form) + にもかかわらず |
| い-adjective | い-adjective + にもかかわらず |
| な-adjective | な-adjective + である + にもかかわらず |
| Noun | Noun + である + にもかかわらず |
Examples of Formation
- Verb: 学ぶにもかかわらず manabu ni mo kakawarazu
- い-adjective: 忙しいにもかかわらず isogashii ni mo kakawarazu
- な-adjective: 元気であるにもかかわらず genki de aru ni mo kakawarazu
- Noun: 雨であるにもかかわらず ame de aru ni mo kakawarazu
3. Comparative Analysis
Similar Grammar Points
～のに (〜no ni)
- Meaning: "Even though," "although"
- Usage: Used in both written and spoken language to express a contradiction between two clauses.
- Example: 熱があるのに、働いている。
Differences with ～にもかかわらず
- Formality: ～にもかかわらず is more formal than ～のに.
- Tone: ～のに can express personal feelings such as regret or dissatisfaction, while ～にもかかわらず is more objective.
4. Examples in Context
Sentence Examples
- 彼は雨にもかかわらず、ジョギングに出かけた。 Kare wa ame ni mo kakawarazu, jogingu ni dekaketa. Translation: Despite the rain, he went out jogging.
- 試験勉強をしていなかったにもかかわらず、彼女は合格した。 Shiken benkyō o shite inakatta ni mo kakawarazu, kanojo wa gōkaku shita. Translation: Even though she hadn't studied for the exam, she passed.
- 彼らは反対にもかかわらず、計画を進めた。 Karera wa hantai ni mo kakawarazu, keikaku o susumeta. Translation: Despite the opposition, they proceeded with the plan.
- 忙しいにもかかわらず、彼はボランティア活動に参加している。 Isogashii ni mo kakawarazu, kare wa borantia katsudō ni sanka shite iru. Translation: In spite of being busy, he participates in volunteer activities.
- 高価であるにもかかわらず、その製品はよく売れている。 Kōka de aru ni mo kakawarazu, sono seihin wa yoku urete iru. Translation: Although it is expensive, that product is selling well.
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
In Japanese culture, there is a strong emphasis on perseverance and commitment. Using expressions like ～にもかかわらず highlights the act of overcoming obstacles, which is a valued trait.
Levels of Politeness and Formality
- Formal Expression: ～にもかかわらず is considered formal and is commonly used in written language, speeches, news reports, and official documents.
- Politeness: It maintains a neutral tone and does not carry emotional judgment, making it suitable for both formal and polite contexts.
Idiomatic Expressions
- 天候にもかかわらず Ten-kō ni mo kakawarazu Meaning: Despite the weather
- 予想外の結果にもかかわらず Yosōgai no kekka ni mo kakawarazu Meaning: Despite the unexpected results
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
- Omitting である with Nouns and な-adjectives
- Incorrect: 学生にもかかわらず
- Correct: 学生であるにもかかわらず
- Using Casual Forms in Formal Contexts
- Incorrect: 忙しいのに (Too casual in formal writing)
- Correct: 忙しいにもかかわらず
Learning Strategies
- Mnemonic Device: Remember that かかわらず comes from the verb 関わる (kakawaru) meaning "to be related." So, think of it as "even when related to X, Y happens."
- Practice Switching: Try rewriting sentences that use ～のに with ～にもかかわらず to become comfortable with formal expressions.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ～にもかかわらず is used to express "despite" or "in spite of."
- It connects two clauses where the second clause occurs contrary to what might be expected from the first.
- It is a formal expression, suitable for written and formal spoken Japanese.
- Formation: Attach にもかかわらず directly to verbs and い-adjectives. Use である before にもかかわらず with nouns and な-adjectives.
Quick Recap Quiz
- Question: How do you correctly use ～にもかかわらず with a noun? a) Noun + にもかかわらず b) Noun + である + にもかかわらず Answer: b) Noun + である + にもかかわらず
- Question: Translate the following sentence: "Despite the high price, customers are buying it." Answer: 高い価格であるにもかかわらず、顧客はそれを購入している。
- Question: Is ～にもかかわらず more formal or casual compared to ～のに? Answer: It is more formal than ～のに.
By understanding and practicing ～にもかかわらず, you can enhance your ability to express complex contrasts in formal Japanese. Keep practicing by creating your own sentences using this grammar point!