とは打って変わって / とは打って変わり【とはうってかわって / とはうってかわり】

unlike, totally different, very different from

AI-generated

Structure

[noun] + とは打って変わって [noun] + とは打って変わり

Description

The expression とは打って変わって (or とは打って変わり) is used to describe a dramatic, complete change from a previous state or situation. It emphasizes that something is strikingly different from what came before or from what was expected. The phrase literally contains うつ打つ (to strike) and かわる変わる (to change), conveying the image of a sharp, sudden transformation.

This is a formal, somewhat literary expression commonly found in written Japanese, news reports, speeches, and narration. It is used when contrasting two time periods, situations, or states.

Basic Usage

The pattern attaches to a noun (often representing a previous time, situation, or state) followed by とは打って変わって or とは打って変わり, and then a clause describing the new, contrasting situation.

、。

Completely unlike yesterday, today is perfectly clear.

、。

In a total change from the first half, the second half became an intense match.

とは打って変わって vs. とは打って変わり

Both forms are interchangeable in meaning. とはうってかわり打って変わり is slightly more formal and literary, while とはうってかわって打って変わって is the standard て-form continuation and is more common overall.

、。

In a complete turnaround from last year, this year's sales are strong.

Nuance

This expression is not used for minor or gradual differences. It specifically conveys that the change is dramatic and unmistakable. It is stronger than expressions like 〜～とちがって違って or 〜～にくらべて比べて, which can describe any degree of difference.

Examples

、。

Completely unlike yesterday, today is very warm.

、。

In a total change from the previous meeting, this time there was lively discussion.

、。

In a complete change from the morning, the weather became calm in the afternoon.

、。

Completely unlike his childhood, he became a very serious adult.

、。

In a dramatic change from last month, this month orders are flooding in.

、。

In a total transformation from when she first joined the company, she is now the team leader.

、。

Completely unlike a year ago, this town has fully regained its vitality.

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In a stark contrast to the atmosphere during practice, everyone was tense during the actual performance.

、。

In a complete departure from the previous work, this film is portrayed in a bright tone.

、。

Completely unlike my student days, I became strict about time after entering the workforce.

とばかりに

とは比べものにならない