Japanese grammar

What does ~にはんして mean? Japanese grammar N2

~にはんして means contrary to (an expectation, hope, or regulation).

Quick facts
Level (estimated, JLPT framework)N2
StructureN + に反して
N + に反する/に反した + N
Romajinihanshite
Meaningcontrary to (an expectation, hope, or regulation)

Forming it

Noun予想 + に反して
Noun (modifier)規則 + に反する + 行為

How to use it

States a result/fact that GOES AGAINST A (prediction, expectation, rule, wish). Formal.

  • 「~に反して」 = "contrary to A (予想・期待・命令・規則)". The result is opposite to A.
  • As a modifier, use 「に反する/に反した + N」.
  • A is usually an abstract noun: prediction, expectation, rule, wish.

Examples

  • Contrary to expectations, the exam was easy.

  • Acts that violate the rules will be punished.

Keep in mind

  • Attaches to a noun.
  • Means "contrary to/violating", depending on A.

Common mistakes

  • Wrongこれは予想(よそう)に反(はん)しての結果(けっか)だ。

    This is a result contrary to the prediction.

    Correctこれは予想(よそう)に反(はん)する結果(けっか)だ。

    As a modifier, use 「に反する/に反した + N」.

  • Wrong暑(あつ)いに反(はん)して、客(きゃく)が来(き)た。

    Contrary to prediction, customers still came.

    Correct予想(よそう)に反(はん)して、客(きゃく)が来(き)た。

    「に反して」 attaches to an abstract noun (prediction/rule), not directly to an adjective.

Exam tips

  • 「に反して」 = contrary to prediction/rule; as a modifier, 「に反する+N」.

Related patterns

All N2 grammar →