JLPT N1 reference · Concession and restriction
ものを
It expresses reproach, regret, or frustration that a different outcome would have followed under better choices.
Core meaning and form
Attach ものを to a plain clause, often after a condition or unrealized possibility. The main consequence may be omitted because the speaker treats it as obvious.
- Form: Attach ものを to a plain clause, often after a condition or unrealized possibility.
- Core use: It expresses reproach, regret, or frustration that a different outcome would have followed under better choices.
- Context: The main consequence may be omitted because the speaker treats it as obvious.
Examples in context
早く相談すればよかったものを。Hayaku sōdan sureba yokatta mono o.If only you had consulted us earlier.
黙っていれば分からなかったものを、彼は全部話した。Damatte ireba wakaranakatta mono o, kare wa zenbu hanashita.Although no one would have known if he had stayed quiet, he told everything.
一言謝れば済むものを。Hitokoto ayamareba sumu mono o.It would be settled if only he apologized.
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 ものを to a plain clause, often after a condition or unrealized possibility.
- It expresses reproach, regret, or frustration that a different outcome would have followed under better choices.
- The main consequence may be omitted because the speaker treats it as obvious.