〜ところが
however (unexpectedly)
Show when one action happens in relation to another.
Remember it
Place two moments on a timeline and join them with 〜ところが.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜ところが」 means "however (unexpectedly)". Structure: ところが + Sentence. 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ところが、利用は中止になりました。
ところが、りよう は ちゅうし に なりました。
tokoroga, riyou wa chuushi ni narimashita.
However, the use was cancelled.
Everyday life
Example 2ところが、指導は中止になりました。
ところが、しどう は ちゅうし に なりました。
tokoroga, shidou wa chuushi ni narimashita.
However, the guidance was cancelled.
Everyday life
Example 3ところが、記録は中止になりました。
ところが、きろく は ちゅうし に なりました。
tokoroga, kiroku wa chuushi ni narimashita.
However, the record was cancelled.
Everyday life
Example 4ところが、配送は中止になりました。
ところが、はいそう は ちゅうし に なりました。
tokoroga, haisou wa chuushi ni narimashita.
However, the shipping was cancelled.
Everyday life
Example 5ところが、通訳は中止になりました。
ところが、つうやく は ちゅうし に なりました。
tokoroga, tsuuyaku wa chuushi ni narimashita.
However, the interpretation was cancelled.
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
However, the use was cancelled.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜ところが.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.