〜ところ
about to / just did
Show when one action happens in relation to another.
Remember it
Place two moments on a timeline and join them with 〜ところ.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜ところ」 means "about to / just did". Structure: Verb + ところ. This is a JLPT N3 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
Use it for routines, status updates, sequences, and telling stories.
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これから利用を始めるところです。
これから りよう を はじめる ところ です。
korekara riyou o hajimeru tokoro desu.
I am just about to start the use.
Everyday life
Example 2これから指導を始めるところです。
これから しどう を はじめる ところ です。
korekara shidou o hajimeru tokoro desu.
I am just about to start the guidance.
Everyday life
Example 3これから記録を始めるところです。
これから きろく を はじめる ところ です。
korekara kiroku o hajimeru tokoro desu.
I am just about to start the record.
Everyday life
Example 4これから配送を始めるところです。
これから はいそう を はじめる ところ です。
korekara haisou o hajimeru tokoro desu.
I am just about to start the shipping.
Everyday life
Example 5これから通訳を始めるところです。
これから つうやく を はじめる ところ です。
korekara tsuuyaku o hajimeru tokoro desu.
I am just about to start the interpretation.
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
I am just about to start the use.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜ところ.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.