Processing keyword: Noun をよそに (~wo yoso ni)

Japanese Grammar Point: Noun をよそに (~wo yoso ni)

Noun をよそに (~をよそに)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we will explore the grammar point をよそに (~wo yoso ni), which is used to express the idea of doing something despite or without regard to certain circumstances or opinions. This construction is commonly used in written and formal Japanese to highlight a contrast between expectations and actions.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

The phrase をよそに translates to "without regard to", "despite", or "in defiance of". It indicates that the subject proceeds with an action, ignoring or showing little concern for surrounding conditions, opinions, or expectations.

Structure

The structure is straightforward:

• Noun + をよそに

Formation Diagram

[Concerned Noun] をよそに [Main Action]

Example:

彼らは周囲の反対をよそに結婚した。
They got married despite the opposition around them.

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

Nuance Differences

• にもかかわらず is more general and can be used with verbs, adjectives, and nouns.
• をものともせずに is often used to describe overcoming hardships or obstacles, often praising someone's courage.
• をよそに implies ignoring or not caring about something, and can carry a nuance of criticism or surprise.

4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. 親の心配をよそに、彼は一人で世界旅行に出た。
   • Ignoring his parents' worries, he set out on a solo trip around the world.
2. 会社の危機をよそに、彼は悠々と休暇を楽しんでいる。
   • Despite the company's crisis, he is leisurely enjoying his vacation.
3. 住民たちの反対をよそに、その建設計画は進められた。
   • Ignoring the residents' opposition, the construction plan proceeded.
4. 彼女は周囲の批判をよそに、自分の信念を貫いた。
   • She stuck to her beliefs, disregarding the criticism around her.
5. 先生の説明をよそに、学生たちはおしゃべりを続けていた。
   • The students kept chatting, ignoring the teacher's explanation.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese society, harmony and consideration for others are highly valued. Using をよそに can emphasize actions that go against social expectations or group consensus. It can highlight individualism in a culture that often prioritizes the group over the individual.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• をよそに is more commonly used in written language and formal contexts.
• It may sound stiff or literary in casual spoken Japanese.

Idiomatic Expressions

While をよそに itself is a grammatical construct, it's often used in idiomatic ways to express disregard for common concerns, providing a subtle critique or highlighting a notable disregard.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Using with Verbs or Adjectives Directly Incorrect:
  彼は仕事が忙しいをよそに、遊んでばかりいる。 Correct:
  彼は忙しい仕事 をよそに、遊んでばかりいる。
• Misplacing をよそに in the Sentence Remember that をよそに follows a noun directly.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device Think of をよそに as "placing [noun] to the side" (i.e., not paying attention to it).
• Practice by Identifying Look for news articles or stories where individuals act contrary to expectations, and try constructing sentences using をよそに.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• をよそに is used to express doing something despite or without regard to something else.
• It follows a noun and is commonly used in formal or written contexts.
• It can carry a nuance of criticism or highlight a notable disregard for norms or expectations.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank: 彼は周りの __________、 自分のやり方を続けた。
   • Answer: 彼は周りの 忠告をよそに、自分のやり方を続けた。
2. True or False: をよそに can be used directly after verbs.
   • Answer: False. It is used after nouns.
3. Choose the correct usage: a) 彼は疲れをよそに、練習を続けた。
   b) 彼は疲れているをよそに、練習を続けた。
   • Answer: a) 彼は疲れをよそに、練習を続けた。

By understanding and practicing をよそに, you can express nuanced contrasts in situations where actions are taken despite prevailing concerns or opinions. Remember to pay attention to its placement after nouns and the formal tone it conveys.