JLPT N3 reference · Complex clauses
Despite with のに
It marks an outcome contrary to expectation and often carries surprise, dissatisfaction, or criticism.
Core meaning and form
Attach のに to a plain clause; nouns and な-adjectives use なのに. Do not confuse connective のに with purpose uses of verb dictionary form + のに.
- Form: Attach のに to a plain clause; nouns and な-adjectives use なのに.
- Core use: It marks an outcome contrary to expectation and often carries surprise, dissatisfaction, or criticism.
- Context: Do not confuse connective のに with purpose uses of verb dictionary form + のに.
Examples in context
雨なのに、試合がありました。Ame na noni, shiai ga arimashita.Although it was raining, the match took place.
勉強したのに、合格できなかった。Benkyō shita noni, gōkaku dekinakatta.Although I studied, I could not pass.
この店は高いのに、いつも混んでいる。Kono mise wa takai noni, itsumo konde iru.Although this shop is expensive, it is always crowded.
Common errors
- Do not select this pattern from an English translation alone; check its attachment and discourse function.
- Keep the surrounding sentence in a consistent plain, polite, spoken, or written register.
Quick summary
- Attach のに to a plain clause; nouns and な-adjectives use なのに.
- It marks an outcome contrary to expectation and often carries surprise, dissatisfaction, or criticism.
- Do not confuse connective のに with purpose uses of verb dictionary form + のに.