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

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

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

1. Introduction

The grammar point ～はともかく～は (〜wa tomokaku 〜wa) is used to express that one thing can be set aside or ignored in order to focus on another aspect or detail. It’s a way of indicating that there’s a contrast or difference in importance between two subjects or topics.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

The structure of this grammar point can be broken down as follows:

• Structure:
  • AはともかくBは
    • A - the first subject that is being set aside or considered less important.
    • ともかく - a conjunction meaning "for now, let’s not talk about this, or regardless of."
    • B - the second subject that is the main focus of discussion.

Meaning

The overall meaning translates to: "Let's not worry about A; what’s important is B."

Formation Diagram

   AはともかくBは
  [Let's put aside A, focusing on B]

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• ～はおろか (〜wa oroka): This expression is used to express that not only A but also B is true, often indicating a more extreme situation.

  • Example: "彼は日本語はおろか英語も話せない" (He can’t speak Japanese, let alone English.)

• ～に関しては (〜ni kanshite wa): This emphasizes the topic being discussed but doesn’t suggest setting aside the first subject.

  • Example: "彼は仕事に関しては詳しい." (He is knowledgeable regarding his work.)

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:

   • 日本の文化はともかく、歴史も大切です。
     • (Let’s set aside Japanese culture for now; history is also important.)

2. Informal:

   • お金はともかく、時間がないと駄目だよ。
     • (Forget about the money; we need time first.)

3. Written:

   • 成績はともかく、参加することが重要です。
     • (Regardless of the grades, participating is what matters.)

4. Spoken:

   • 彼の考えはともかく、私たちは行動しなきゃ。
     • (Let’s not worry about his opinion; we need to take action.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

Using ～はともかく～は shows a level of politeness and nuance in Japanese communication. It demonstrates the speaker's ability to prioritize information and focus discussions, which is valued in Japanese culture. It’s often used in business settings or formal discussions, where directness is crucial while still being polite.

Idiomatic Expressions

Common expressions using this grammar point:

• "食べ物はともかく、お酒が大好きだ" (Forget about the food; I love the alcohol.)

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

A frequent mistake learners make is misplacing the "ともかく," leading to confusion about which subject is being set aside.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember the phrase "A is not right now" to associate setting aside A before focusing on B.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Usage: ～はともかく～は is used to set one thing aside while emphasizing another.
• Structure: Identify A as less important and B as the focal point.
• Nuance: Essential in both formal and informal contexts to show prioritization without dismissiveness.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What is the main purpose of using ～はともかく～は?
2. Create a sentence using this grammar point involving travel and food.
3. Compare ～はともかく～は with another similar expression.

Feel free to refer back to this guide for a clear understanding of the grammar point ～はともかく～は!