Japanese grammar
What does ～とみると mean? Japanese grammar N1
～とみると means as soon as one sees that…; once realizing that….
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | 普通形 + とみると N + だ + とみると |
| Romaji | tomiruto |
| Meaning | as soon as one sees that…; once realizing that… |
Forming it
| Noun | チャンス + だ + とみると |
|---|---|
| Clause | 隙がある + とみると |
How to use it
States that as soon as one perceives situation A, one immediately acts B. The latter clause is usually a quick reaction.
- 「～とみると」 = as soon as one perceives/sees A, then immediately B. Emphasizes a QUICK reaction upon judging the situation.
- The subject is usually another person; the latter clause is a calculated action.
- Different from 「～とみて」 (based on a judgment, does something): 「とみると」 emphasizes IMMEDIACY and repetition.
Examples
彼は隙があるとみると、すぐに割り込んでくる。
The moment he sees an opening, he cuts right in.
チャンスだとみると、彼女は迷わず手を挙げた。
Seeing her chance, she raised her hand without hesitation.
Keep in mind
- The following clause is a quick reaction.
- Usually about another person.
Common mistakes
-
Wrongこの問題を数学の視点でとみると、解決策が見える。
Looking at this problem from a mathematical angle, a solution appears.
Correctこの問題を数学の視点から見ると、解決策が見える。
“Looking at it from a certain angle” uses 「～から見ると」; 「とみると」 = as soon as one perceives A, immediately B.
-
Wrong隙があるとみると、注意してください。
As soon as you see an opening, please be careful.
Correct隙があるとみると、彼はすぐ動く。
The latter clause is the subject's own REACTION, not a request.
Exam tips
- 「とみると」 = as soon as one sees A, immediately B; different from 「から見ると」 (viewpoint).