〜ときたら
when it comes to ~ (complaint)
Show what happens when a condition is met.
Remember it
Think “if this, then that” and bridge them with 〜ときたら.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜ときたら」 means "when it comes to ~ (complaint)". Structure: Noun + ときたら. This is a JLPT N1 pattern — the examples below slot different everyday and workplace words into the same structure so you can see how it behaves. Learn the structure, then swap in your own words.
When to use it
Keep the condition and its result clear; the order matters more than a literal translation.
Tone: Neutral
A general pattern; let the sentence ending and situation set the politeness level.
Use
Hear it in real life
Everyday life
Example 1最近の採決ときたら、変更ばかりだ。
さいきん の さいけつ と きたら、へんこう ばかり だ。
saikin no saiketsu to kitara, henkou bakari da.
When it comes to recent votes, it is nothing but changes.
Shopping & services
Example 2最近の買収ときたら、変更ばかりだ。
さいきん の ばいしゅう と きたら、へんこう ばかり だ。
saikin no baishuu to kitara, henkou bakari da.
When it comes to recent acquisitions, it is nothing but changes.
Everyday life
Example 3最近の志願ときたら、変更ばかりだ。
さいきん の しがん と きたら、へんこう ばかり だ。
saikin no shigan to kitara, henkou bakari da.
When it comes to recent volunteerings, it is nothing but changes.
Everyday life
Example 4最近の転載ときたら、変更ばかりだ。
さいきん の てんさい と きたら、へんこう ばかり だ。
saikin no tensai to kitara, henkou bakari da.
When it comes to recent reprintings, it is nothing but changes.
Everyday life
Example 5最近の滞納ときたら、変更ばかりだ。
さいきん の たいのう と きたら、へんこう ばかり だ。
saikin no tainou to kitara, henkou bakari da.
When it comes to recent payment arrearss, it is nothing but changes.
Make it yours
Choose one example. Replace one person, place, object, or time with a detail from your life, then say the new sentence aloud.
Recall
Test your memory
Recall practice
Can you say it?
1 of 5
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
When it comes to recent votes, it is nothing but changes.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜ときたら.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.