Processing keyword: ～に反して (〜ni hanshite)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～に反して (〜ni hanshite)

Grammar Point: ～に反して (〜ni hanshite)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ～に反して (〜ni hanshite) is used to express the idea of "contrary to" or "in opposition to." It indicates that something is happening in contrast to what one might expect based on certain conditions, opinions, or rules. This expression is often employed in formal writing and discussions.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The phrase conveys that a particular action, event, or situation does not align with previously stated expectations or norms.

• Structure:

  • The structure to form this expression is:
    • Noun + に反して (Noun + ni hanshite)
    • Verb (in plain form) + のに反して (Verb + noni hanshite)

Formation Diagram

     +-----------------+
     |                 |
   Noun          Verb (Plain)
     |                 |
     +-------> に反して +
            (in contrast to)

Visual Aids

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• 〜に対して (〜ni taishite): This means "towards" or "in contrast with," but it is more neutral and does not carry the connotation of opposition.

  • Example: 彼に対して優しい (kare ni taishite yasashii) - "Kind to him."

• 〜に従って (〜ni shitagatte): This means "in accordance with," indicating agreement rather than opposition.

  • Example: 規則に従って行動する (kisoku ni shitagatte koudou suru) - "Act in accordance with the rules."

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Context:
   • 予想に反して、雨が降り続いている。
   • (Yosou ni hanshite, ame ga furitsuzuite iru.)
   • "Contrary to expectations, it continues to rain."
2. Informal Context:
   • 彼の話は期待に反して、全然面白くなかった。
   • (Kare no hanashi wa kitai ni hanshite, zenzen omoshirokunakatta.)
   • "His story was, contrary to my expectations, not interesting at all."
3. Written Context:
   • 新しい法案は、専門家の意見に反して通過した。
   • (Atarashii houan wa, senmonka no iken ni hanshite tsuuka shita.)
   • "The new bill passed contrary to the experts' opinions."
4. Spoken Context:
   • 彼女は予想に反して、すぐに帰ってきた。
   • (Kanojo wa yosou ni hanshite, sugu ni kaette kita.)
   • "She came back right away, contrary to what I expected."

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese society, where expectations and norms hold significant weight, using ～に反して acknowledges that outcomes can diverge from traditional norms or expectations. This is particularly relevant in contexts such as business or family, where adherence to rules is often expected.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 彼の行動は常識に反している。
• (Kare no koudou wa joushiki ni hanshite iru.)
• "His actions are contrary to common sense."

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Mixing up with 〜に従って and using it in inappropriate contexts.
  • Incorrect: 予想に従って、雨が降った。
  • Correct: 予想に反して、雨が降った。

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that "反して" (hanshite) sounds like "contrary" to help you associate it with opposition.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ～に反して is used to indicate contradiction or opposition.
• It can be used with both nouns and verbs to express that something differs from expectations.
• Commonly utilized in formal and written Japanese.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ～に反して mean?
2. Create a sentence using ～に反して with a noun.
3. What is a common mistake learners might make when using this grammar point? By understanding and practicing this grammar point, learners can effectively articulate contrasts and contradictions in various contexts!