Japanese grammar
What does ～ともあろう～ mean? Japanese grammar N1
～ともあろう～ means for someone who is supposed to be… (criticism).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | N (standing) + ともあろう + N (者/人など) |
| Romaji | tomoarou |
| Meaning | for someone who is supposed to be… (criticism) |
Forming it
| Occupation | 教師 + ともあろう + 者 |
|---|---|
| Organization | 大企業 + ともあろう + 会社 |
How to use it
Reproach: a person/organization of high standing does something unbecoming. Formal writing.
- 「AともあろうB」 = “for someone of A's standing to...” — states the subject's high standing to highlight how UNBECOMING the behavior is.
- The latter clause often ends in 「～なんて」, 「～とは」, 「～べきではない」 — expressing disappointment/reproach.
- After 「ともあろう」 usually comes 「者・人・機関・会社」.
Examples
教師ともあろう者が、そんな発言をするとは情けない。
For a teacher of all people to say such a thing is disgraceful.
大企業ともあろう会社が、法を守らないなんて。
That a major corporation should flout the law…
Keep in mind
- Used only with a subject that HAS standing/prestige.
- Always carries a reproachful tone.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong子供ともあろう者が、泣いてしまった。
For a teacher of all people to lie like that.
Correct教師ともあろう者が、うそをつくとは。
This pattern only applies to a subject with STANDING/prestige; a child doesn't fit.
-
Wrong教師ともあろう者が、立派に働いている。
For a teacher of all people to work so diligently.
Correct教師ともあろう者が、そんなことをするとは。
The latter clause states behavior that is UNBECOMING (reproach), not something to praise.
Exam tips
- 「ともあろう者が」 = for someone of such standing to (reproach); only for people with standing.