JLPT N1 Grammar Point: 〜ものを
This JLPT N1 grammar point explains how to use 〜ものを correctly, with formation rules and example sentences.
Pattern
- V普通形 + ものを
- イA普通形 + ものを
- ナAだ + ものを
- Nだ + ものを
Explanation
Used to express regret, dissatisfaction, or criticism that if something had been properly done or true, the result should have been different, but in reality it was not.
Usage
It often carries the speaker's frustration or disappointment. The sentence assumes a different situation from reality and contrasts it with the actual result. Sometimes the latter part is omitted when it is obvious from context.
Formation
Attach ものを to the plain form of a verb, i-adjective, na-adjective, or noun.
Examples
安静にしていれば治るものを、小野さんはすぐ仕事に戻って、また症状を悪化させてしまった。
あんせいにしていればなおるものを、おのさんはすぐしごとにもどって、またしょうじょうをあっかさせてしまった。If she had just rested, she would have recovered, but Ms. Ono went straight back to work and ended up making her condition worse again.
もっと丁寧に進めれば誤解されないものを、彼の強引な話し方がいつもすれ違いを生む。
もっとていねいにすすめればごかいされないものを、かれのごういんなはなしかたがいつもすれちがいをうむ。If he handled things more carefully, he would not be misunderstood, but his forceful way of speaking always creates friction.
黙っていればいいものを、彼は部長にまで強い口調で反論した。そのせいで立場を悪くした。
だまっていればいいものを、かれはぶちょうにまでつよいくちょうではんろんした。そのせいでたちばをわるくした。He should have just kept quiet, but instead he even argued back sharply to the department manager. Because of that, he put himself in a worse position.
一言知らせてくれれば済んだものを。
ひとことしらせてくれればすんだものを。It would have been enough if you had just let me know with a single word.