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)

～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

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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

1. 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
2. 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

1. 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
2. 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。
3. 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!