～ところが JLPT N3 Neutral
〜tokoro ga
Expresses a contrast or unexpected outcome; 'however', 'but', 'even though'.
Introduces an unexpected/surprising outcome; storytelling register, implies surprise rather than plain contrast.
Formation
Phrase 1 (expected situation) + ところが + Phrase 2 (unexpected result)
Explanation
The ～ところが grammar point is used to express a contrast or an unexpected outcome. It can be translated as 'however', 'but', or 'even though' in English. It emphasizes a situation that contradicts what was expected.
Example sentences
-
He's always late, but today he arrived early.
Kare wa itsumo chikoku suru tokoro ga, kyou wa hayaku kimashita.
-
Yesterday was hot, but today it got cold.
Kinou wa atsukatta tokoro ga, kyou wa samuku narimashita.
-
I thought we would lose the match, but surprisingly we won.
Shiai de makeru to omotta tokoro ga, igai ni mo kachimashita.
-
We were about to win the final, but we lost at the last point.
Kesshousen de yuushou suru tokoro ga, saigo no pointo de makemashita.