～ば～のに JLPT N3 Neutral

Formation

Verb-ば form + ～のに, い-Adjective-ば form + ～のに, な-Adjective + であれば + ～のに, Noun + であれば + ～のに

Explanation

The ～ば～のに grammar point is used to express regret or dissatisfaction about a situation that didn't happen or to express a contrary view of the actual situation. It can be translated as 'if only' or 'wish' in English. The formation differs depending on whether it is used with a verb, い-adjective, な-adjective, or noun.

Example sentences

• もっと早く来れば、電車に間に合ったのに。

  If only I had come earlier, I would have made it to the train.

  Motto hayaku kureba, densha ni maniatta noni.

• もっと勉強すれば、試験に合格したのに。

  I wish I had studied more, I would have passed the exam.

  Motto benkyou sureba, shiken ni goukaku shita noni.

• 彼女がもっと優しければ、彼と上手くいくのに。

  If only she were kinder, she would get along with him.

  Kanojo ga motto yasashikereba, kare to umaku iku noni.

• 日本語が上手であれば、この本が読めるのに。

  I wish I were good at Japanese, then I could read this book.

  Nihongo ga jouzu de areba, kono hon ga yomeru noni.

Wish (If Only)

• ～さえ～ば JLPT N2
• ～ものなら JLPT N2
• ～ば～ものを JLPT N1