くせして

くせして (also written as くせに) is used to express criticism, complaint, or disapproval toward someone who acts in a way that contradicts what is expected given their situation. It translates to "despite the fact that," "even though," or "although," but carries a strongly negative, judgmental, or accusatory tone.

How it differs from のに

While のに also means "even though," くせして is much more emotionally charged and confrontational. It implies the speaker finds the person's behavior unreasonable, hypocritical, or annoying given the circumstances. Because of this tone, it is almost always directed at other people (or sometimes at oneself in a self-deprecating way), and is rarely used in polite or formal speech.

Structure

• Verb (plain form) + くせして - い-adjective + くせして - な-adjective + な + くせして - Noun + の + くせして

くせして vs. くせに

くせして and くせに are largely interchangeable, but くせして tends to sound slightly more confrontational and spoken. Both carry the same critical nuance.

Usage notes

• Typically used in casual or blunt speech.
• Almost always implies blame or irritation toward the subject.
• Avoid using this toward superiors or in formal situations, as it is inherently rude.
• Can be used about oneself for self-criticism or self-deprecation.
  じぶん自分できめた決めたくせして、もんく文句ばかりいっている言っている。

  I decided it myself, yet I keep complaining.