〜わりに

Considering...; For...

1. Overview

「〜わりに」 is a grammatical structure used to express that something is unexpected or contrary to what one might assume based on a certain standard or expectation. It highlights a contrast between a situation and the anticipated outcome.

2. Structure

• Noun + わりに
• Verb (dictionary form) + わりに
• Adjective (plain form) + わりに

3. Usage Explanation

• Indicating Contrast:
  This structure is used to highlight a contrast between an expected outcome based on a certain standard and the actual situation.

• Surprising Outcomes:
  It is often used when the actual result is more positive or negative than what would typically be expected.

• English Translation:
  It can be translated as "considering...", "for...", or "in comparison to...".

4. Example Sentences

1. 値段のわりに、質がとても良い。
   Considering the price, the quality is very good.

2. 初心者のわりに、彼はとても上手だ。
   For a beginner, he is very skilled.

3. 彼女は忙しいわりに、時間を作ってくれた。
   She made time for me, considering how busy she is.

4. 年齢のわりに、彼は若々しい。
   He is youthful for his age.

5. 勉強のわりに、テストの結果は良くなかった。
   For the amount of studying, the test results were not good.

5. Key Points to Note

• Contextual Use:
  「〜わりに」 is often used in both formal and informal contexts to express contrasts.

• Expectation vs. Reality:
  This structure emphasizes the difference between what is expected and what actually occurs.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜にしては: Indicates a contrast between an expected outcome based on a certain standard and the actual situation.
  • Example: 子供にしては、彼は大人っぽい。
    For a child, he is very mature.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜としては: Used to indicate a standard for comparison, often focusing on qualifications or roles.
  • Example: 教師としては、彼は優れた能力を持っている。
    As a teacher, he possesses excellent abilities.

8. Summary

「〜わりに」 is used to express a contrast between an expected outcome based on a standard and the actual situation, often highlighting surprising results. It is versatile and can be applied in various contexts to convey nuanced meanings.