Japanese grammar
What does ～ものの mean? Japanese grammar N2
～ものの means even though…, (in fact, contrary to what one would expect).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N2 |
|---|---|
| Structure | 普通形 + ものの Aな + な + ものの Nである + ものの |
| Romaji | monono |
| Meaning | even though…, (in fact, contrary to what one would expect) |
Forming it
| Verb | 買った + ものの |
|---|---|
| i-adjective | 安い + ものの |
| na-adjective | 便利な + ものの |
How to use it
States a fact in the first clause, but the second clause contradicts what would logically follow; concessive, written style.
- 「～ものの」 states an acknowledged fact in the first clause, then the second clause presents a reality that CONTRADICTS what would logically follow: "although… but…". A concessive nuance, often regretful or disappointing.
- Formal, leans toward written style; close to 「が／けれど」 but emphasizes the contrast/disappointment.
- The second clause is usually an unexpected situation, not turning out as it should have.
Examples
薬を飲んだものの、まだ熱がある。
Although I took the medicine, I still have a fever.
買ったものの、使い方が分からない。
I bought it, but I don’t know how to use it.
Keep in mind
- Na-adjective + な + ものの; noun + である + ものの.
- Close to 「とはいうものの」 (nevertheless).
Common mistakes
-
Wrong便利だものの、高い。
Although convenient, it's expensive.
Correct便利なものの、高い。
A na-adjective connects to 「ものの」 with 「な」 (便利なものの).
-
Wrong安いものの、たくさん買った。
Because it was cheap, I bought a lot.
Correct安いので、たくさん買った。
「ものの」 requires the second clause to CONTRADICT the expected outcome; "cheap, so bought a lot" is a consistent relationship, so use 「ので」.
Exam tips
- 「ものの」 = although (a fact) but the result contradicts expectations; for a consistent relationship use 「ので」.