ところが

even so, however, even though, but

AI-generated

Structure

[sentence A]。ところが、[sentence B]。

Note: ところが connects two sentences where B is an unexpected/contrary result of A. It typically starts a new sentence.

Description

ところが is a conjunction meaning "however," "but then," or "even so." It is used to connect two sentences where the second sentence describes an unexpected result or outcome that contradicts what was anticipated from the first sentence. The key nuance of ところが is surprise – the speaker did not expect what actually happened.

Contrary to expectation

ところが is placed at the beginning of the second clause to signal that reality turned out differently from what was expected or prepared for.

。、。

I took the medicine. However, I didn't get better at all.

。、だっ。

I thought it would be a difficult exam. But surprisingly, it was easy.

Difference from しかし and けど

While しかし and けど simply express contrast, ところが emphasizes that the result was genuinely unexpected or surprising. It often implies that the speaker had a certain expectation or made preparations, only for things to turn out differently.

。、。

I went out with an umbrella. But as it turned out, it was sunny all day.

Important restrictions

The clause after ところが describes what actually happened – an objective outcome. It should not be followed by the speaker's commands, requests, intentions, or suggestions. Because the unexpected result is something outside the speaker's control, sentences like ところが、～てください or ところが、～たほうがいい are unnatural.

Examples

。、。

I went to bed early. However, I was still sleepy in the morning.

。、。

I thought he wouldn't come. But then, he suddenly showed up.

。、。

I tried going to the new restaurant. However, it was already closed.

。、。

I studied a lot. But even so, I failed the exam.

だっ。、だっ。

The weather forecast said rain. However, the weather was nice all day.

。、。

I started a diet. But on the contrary, I ended up gaining weight.

。、。

I bought an expensive camera. However, the cheap camera took better pictures.

。、。

I called my friend. But it turned out their number had changed.

。、。

I had heard Japanese was difficult. However, when I tried it, it was fun.

。、。

I thought she would be angry at me. But she laughed and forgave me.

。、。

I set out fully prepared. However, I ended up getting lost.

だろう。、。

I thought nobody would come. But then, a large crowd gathered.

References

ところがBunpro

とおりに

どころか