Processing keyword: ～はともかく～は (〜wa tomokaku 〜wa)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～はともかく～は (〜wa tomokaku 〜wa)

～はともかく、～は (～wa tomokaku, ～wa)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese grammar point ～はともかく、～は (pronounced wa tomokaku, wa). This structure is used to express the idea of setting aside one matter to focus on another, highlighting that while both topics may be important, the second one takes precedence in the current context.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

～はともかく、～は is used when you want to emphasize one thing over another by suggesting that the first thing can be set aside for now. It translates to phrases like:

• "Leaving aside A, B..."
• "Regardless of A, B..."
• "Not to mention A, but B..." This structure helps in prioritizing or shifting focus during a conversation or discussion.

Meaning and Structure

Meaning

• "Leaving aside A, B..."
• "Whether or not A, B..."
• "Regardless of A, B..."

Structure

[Noun A] + はともかく + [Noun B] + は + [Comment/Action]

1. [Noun A] はともかく: Indicates the topic being set aside.
2. [Noun B] は: Introduces the main focus or topic of importance.
3. [Comment/Action]: The statement or observation about Noun B.

Formation Diagram

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

～はさておき (～wa sateoki)

• Meaning: "Setting aside A, B..." Often used to change the subject smoothly.
• Difference: While both structures set aside one topic to focus on another, ～はともかく implies that the first topic is of lesser importance, whereas ～はさておき is used more for steering the conversation in a different direction.

～は別として (～wa betsu toshite)

• Meaning: "Apart from A, B..." Suggests that A is an exception.
• Difference: ～は別として separates A from B, treating A as an exception or something not included, whereas ～はともかく suggests temporarily setting aside A to focus on B.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

Example 1: Casual Conversation

宿題はともかく、ゲームをしよう。
Shukudai wa tomokaku, geemu wo shiyou.
*Leaving homework aside, let's play a game.*

Example 2: Formal Setting

結果はともかく、全力を尽くすことが大切です。
Kekka wa tomokaku, zenryoku wo tsukusu koto ga taisetsu desu.
*Regardless of the outcome, giving your all is important.*

Example 3: Expressing Personal Opinion

時間はともかく、費用はかなりかかる。
Jikan wa tomokaku, hiyou wa kanari kakaru.
*Setting time aside, the cost is quite high.*

Example 4: Emphasizing Importance

この店は味はともかく、値段が安い。
Kono mise wa aji wa tomokaku, nedan ga yasui.
*This shop, putting taste aside, has cheap prices.*

Example 5: Discussing Abilities

書くことはともかく、話すことは得意です。
Kaku koto wa tomokaku, hanasu koto wa tokui desu.
*Leaving writing aside, I'm good at speaking.*

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese communication, it's common to acknowledge all aspects of a situation while focusing on what's most relevant. The use of ～はともかく allows speakers to navigate conversations politely, showing consideration for other topics but directing attention to the main point.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• Formal Situations: Use polite forms and honorific language.
  • Example: 結果はともかく、努力することが重要でございます。
• Informal Situations: Casual language is acceptable.
  • Example: 見た目はともかく、味は最高だよ。

Idiomatic Expressions

• 冗談はともかく (joudan wa tomokaku): "Jokes aside..." Used to shift from a playful to a serious tone.
  • Example: 冗談はともかく、早く仕事を終わらせよう。

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Incorrect Particle Usage: Forgetting to use the particle は after Noun A and Noun B.
   • ❌ 見た目ともかく、味おいしい。
   • ✔️ 見た目はともかく、味はおいしい。
2. Using Verbs Instead of Nouns: The structure is primarily used with nouns.
   • ❌ 食べるはともかく、寝るは大事だ。
   • ✔️ 食事はともかく、睡眠は大事だ。

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember ともかく sounds like "Tom or cake," imagining you're setting aside "Tom" to focus on the "cake."
• Practice with Pairs: Create sentences by choosing two related nouns, setting one aside to emphasize the other.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ～はともかく、～は is used to shift focus from one topic to another more important one.
• The structure emphasizes that while both topics may matter, the second is currently more significant.
• It's mainly constructed with nouns and used in both formal and informal contexts.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does the structure ～はともかく、～は express in a sentence?
   • Answer: It expresses the idea of setting aside one matter (A) to focus on another (B).
2. Fill in the blanks with the correct particles:

   質より量___ともかく、品質___重要です。
   

   • Answer: 質より量はともかく、品質は*重要です。
3. True or False: The structure ～はともかく、～は can be used with verbs directly.
   • Answer: False. It's primarily used with nouns.

By understanding and practicing ～はともかく、～は, you'll be able to express prioritization and focus more effectively in Japanese conversations!