〜たかと思うと・たかと思ったら

As soon as...; No sooner than...; Just when...

1. Overview

「〜たかと思うと」 and 「〜たかと思ったら」 are grammatical structures used to indicate that one action or event occurs immediately after another, often conveying surprise or a sense of unexpectedness. They emphasize a rapid succession of events.

2. Structure

• Verb (past tense) + たかと思うと
• Verb (past tense) + たかと思ったら

3. Usage Explanation

• Indicating Rapid Succession:
  These expressions are used when one action happens immediately after another, highlighting the quick transition between the two.

• Surprise or Unexpectedness:
  They often imply a sense of surprise or a twist in the situation, making it suitable for conveying unexpected developments.

• English Translation:
  They can be translated as "as soon as...", "no sooner than...", or "just when...".

4. Example Sentences

1. 試験が終わったかと思うと、すぐに結果が発表された。
   As soon as the exam ended, the results were announced immediately.

2. 子供たちが遊び始めたかと思ったら、もう帰る時間だった。
   No sooner had the children started playing than it was already time to go home.

3. 天気が良くなったかと思うと、急に雨が降り出した。
   Just when the weather got better, it suddenly started to rain.

4. 彼が来たかと思ったら、すぐに帰ってしまった。
   I thought he had arrived, but he left right away.

5. お昼ご飯を食べたかと思うと、もう夕ご飯の時間だ。
   As soon as I finished lunch, it was already time for dinner.

5. Key Points to Note

• Emphasis on Timing:
  This structure emphasizes the timing of events, making it clear that one follows the other very quickly.

• Common Usage:
  It is commonly used in both spoken and written Japanese to express surprise or the unexpected nature of events.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜かと思った: Used to express a similar idea of realization or change in perception after an event.
  • Example: 彼が来るかと思ったら、来なかった。
    I thought he was coming, but he didn't show up.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜ばかりでなく: Emphasizes not just one event but the occurrence of another as well.
  • Example: 新しい製品が出たばかりでなく、売り上げも伸びている。
    Not only has a new product been released, but sales are also increasing.

8. Summary

「〜たかと思うと」 and 「〜たかと思ったら」 express the idea that one action occurs immediately after another, often conveying surprise or unexpectedness. They are useful for describing rapid changes or developments in situations.