JLPT N2 reference · Complex syntax
どころか
It rejects one expectation and replaces it with a more extreme fact, often meaning “far from” or “let alone.”
Core meaning and form
Attach どころか to a noun or plain clause. The second proposition must create a clear scalar reversal or escalation.
- Form: Attach どころか to a noun or plain clause.
- Core use: It rejects one expectation and replaces it with a more extreme fact, often meaning “far from” or “let alone.”
- Context: The second proposition must create a clear scalar reversal or escalation.
Examples in context
休むどころか、残業しなければならなかった。Yasumu dokoro ka, zangyō shinakereba naranakatta.Far from resting, I had to work overtime.
彼は英語どころか、中国語も話せる。Kare wa Eigo dokoro ka, Chūgokugo mo hanaseru.He can speak not only English but even Chinese.
寒いどころか、暑いくらいだ。Samui dokoro ka, atsui kurai da.Far from cold, it is almost hot.
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 どころか to a noun or plain clause.
- It rejects one expectation and replaces it with a more extreme fact, often meaning “far from” or “let alone.”
- The second proposition must create a clear scalar reversal or escalation.