〜たばかりに

Just because of...; Simply because...

1. Overview

The structure "〜たばかりに" is used to express a causal relationship, emphasizing that an unfortunate outcome is due to a specific action or state. This expression typically carries a sense of helplessness or regret.

2. Structure

• Verb (た form) + ばかりに
• Adjective (た form) + ばかりに
• Noun + である + ばかりに

3. Usage Explanation

• Causal Relationship: This structure highlights that a particular action or state has led to an undesirable outcome, often conveying dissatisfaction or regret regarding the result.

• Negative Nature of Consequences: It is commonly used to express negative feelings, indicating that a specific reason has caused an unfavorable result.

4. Example Sentences

1. 準備が足りなかったばかりに、試験に落ちてしまった。
   (Just because I didn’t prepare enough, I failed the exam.)

2. 遅刻したばかりに、会議に参加できなかった。
   (Just because I was late, I couldn’t participate in the meeting.)

3. 新しい機械の使い方が分からなかったばかりに、作業が遅れてしまった。
   (Just because I didn’t understand how to use the new machine, the work got delayed.)

4. 友達に頼んだばかりに、トラブルに巻き込まれた。
   (Just because I asked a friend for help, I got caught up in trouble.)

5. 風邪をひいたばかりに、旅行に行けなかった。
   (Just because I caught a cold, I couldn’t go on the trip.)

5. Key Points to Note

• Emphasizing Regret: When using "〜たばかりに," it usually conveys the speaker's dissatisfaction or regret about the outcome.

• Used in Negative Situations: This expression is typically used to describe negative consequences and is less common in neutral or positive contexts.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜せいで: Another expression indicating a causal relationship, often used in a lighter tone.
  • Example: 遅刻したせいで、電車を逃した。
    (I missed the train because I was late.)

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜ために: Emphasizing purpose or reason, with a more neutral tone.
  • Example: 準備が足りなかったために、試験に落ちた。
    (I failed the exam because I didn’t prepare enough.)

8. Summary

"〜たばかりに" is used to emphasize that a particular result occurs due to a specific action or state, typically carrying a tone of regret or helplessness regarding the outcome.