Processing keyword: Noun + ときたら (〜tokitara)

Japanese Grammar Point: Noun + ときたら (〜tokitara)

1. Introduction

In Japanese, the expression 「Noun + ときたら」 is a colloquial way to introduce a topic with a sense of criticism, dissatisfaction, or frustration. It is similar to saying "When it comes to ___" or "Speaking of ___" in English, often highlighting negative feelings or disapproval about the subject.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning and Usage

• Emphasis on a Topic: Used to highlight a particular noun (person, thing, or situation) as the topic of discussion.
• Expressing Criticism or Discontent: Often conveys the speaker's negative feelings, complaints, or criticism towards the topic.
• Colloquial Tone: Commonly used in spoken Japanese and informal written contexts.

Structure

Noun + ときたら

• Noun: The subject or topic being discussed.
• ときたら: A compound particle used to emphasize the topic with a nuance of criticism or exasperation.

Formation Diagram

Component	Role	Example
Noun	Topic	子供（こども）
ときたら	Topic marker with nuance	ときたら
Example:

• 子供ときたら
  When it comes to kids...

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3. Comparative Analysis

ときたら vs. は (Topic Marker)

• は (wa): The neutral topic marker, simply introduces the topic without any emotional nuance.
  • 例: 彼は 学生です。
    He is a student.
• ときたら: Introduces the topic with an added sense of criticism or exasperation.
  • 例: 彼ときたら、いつも遅刻している。
    When it comes to him, he's always late.

ときたら vs. というと / といえば

• というと / といえば: Means "speaking of" or "when it comes to," used to bring up a topic without inherent negative connotation.
  • 例: 日本料理というと、寿司が思い浮かぶ。
    Speaking of Japanese food, sushi comes to mind.
• ときたら: Specifically adds a critical or exasperated tone.
  • 例: 最近の天気ときたら、雨ばかりだ。
    When it comes to the recent weather, it's nothing but rain.

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4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. 彼女ときたら、また財布を忘れてきた。
   When it comes to her, she forgot her wallet again.
2. うちの猫ときたら、いつも寝てばかりいる。
   Speaking of our cat, it's always sleeping.
3. 最近の若者ときたら、礼儀を知らない。
   When it comes to young people these days, they don't know manners.
4. 店長ときたら、いつも文句ばかり言っている。
   As for the store manager, he's always complaining.
5. このパソコンときたら、すぐにフリーズする。
   This computer, it freezes right away.

Formal vs. Informal Usage

• Informal Context: ときたら is primarily used in informal speech, expressing personal feelings or frustrations.
  • 例: あいつときたら、本当に困ったものだ。
    When it comes to that guy, he's really a troublemaker.
• Formal Writing: Rarely used in formal writing. In formal contexts, it's better to use standard topic markers or more neutral expressions.

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5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Indirect Criticism: In Japanese culture, direct criticism can be considered impolite. Using expressions like ときたら allows speakers to express dissatisfaction indirectly.
• Social Harmony: This indirect approach maintains social harmony (和, wa) by softening the impact of negative statements.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 男ときたら...
  Men, I tell you... (Often used in a playful or exasperated way.)
• 親ときたら...
  Parents these days... (Expressing a common sentiment about a group.)

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Using ときたら in Formal Situations
   • Mistake: Employing ときたら in formal writing or speeches.
   • Correction: Use neutral topic markers like は or phrases like については in formal contexts.
2. Misunderstanding the Negative Nuance
   • Mistake: Using ときたら without intending to convey criticism.
   • Correction: Be aware that ときたら often carries a negative or exasperated tone.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that ときたら sounds like "To ki tara," as if you're about to "talk it out" with some frustration.
• Practice Contextual Usage: Create sentences expressing mild annoyance to get comfortable with the nuance.
• Observe Native Speakers: Listen to how native speakers use ときたら in conversations, TV shows, or movies.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Function: Noun + ときたら introduces a topic with a sense of criticism or exasperation.
• Usage: Primarily used in informal, spoken Japanese.
• Structure: Attach ときたら directly to the noun without any particles.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What is the primary emotional tone conveyed by using ときたら?
   • A) Neutral
   • B) Positive and appreciative
   • C) Critical or exasperated
   • Answer: C) Critical or exasperated
2. Is ときたら appropriate in formal writing?
   • Answer: No, it's primarily used in informal contexts.
3. Choose the correct usage of ときたら:
   • A) 明日ときたら、会議があります。
   • B) 彼ときたら、また遅刻した。
   • Answer: B) 彼ときたら、また遅刻した。

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Feel free to practice by creating your own sentences using Noun + ときたら to express mild criticism or frustration in a colloquial manner!

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