〜ものなら・もんなら

If…were possible…; If…could…

1. Overview

「〜ものなら」and「〜もんなら」are used to express a hypothetical situation, usually conveying a strong wish or assumption. They emphasize how things would be different if certain conditions were met.

2. Structure

1. Verb (dictionary form) + ものなら
   Used to indicate a hypothetical condition, often expressing a desire or the outcome of that condition.

2. Verb (dictionary form) + もんなら
   Emphasizes the same hypothesis, with a more conversational tone.

3. Usage Explanation

• Indicating Hypothetical Wishes:
  These expressions are used to imagine what would happen under certain conditions, often carrying a sense of regret or hope.

• Emphasizing Conditions:
  They highlight that if a certain condition were true, things would have different outcomes.

• English Translation:
  Can be translated as “If…were possible…” or “if…could…”

4. Example Sentences

1. 時間があれば、もっと勉強するものなら。
   If I had time, I would study more.

2. 行けるものなら、どこへでも行きたい。
   If it were possible to go, I would like to go anywhere.

3. あの時、助けてくれたらよかったのに。
   I wish you could have helped me back then.

4. できるものなら、彼に謝りたい。
   If possible, I would like to apologize to him.

5. 彼女が好きなものなら、何でも買ってあげる。
   If it’s something she likes, I will buy it for her.

5. Key Points to Note

• Tone:
  「〜ものなら」is relatively formal, while 「〜もんなら」is more casual and commonly used in everyday conversation.

• Usage Context:
  Both expressions can be used in relaxed settings, but「〜ものなら」is also suitable for formal situations.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜たら: Used to indicate conditions or hypotheses, with a more neutral tone.
  • Example: もし時間があったら、旅行に行きたい。
    If I had time, I would like to travel.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜なら: Also indicates a hypothesis but does not usually carry a sense of regret.
  • Example: あなたが来るなら、私も行く。
    If you come, I will go too.

8. Summary

「〜ものなら」and「〜もんなら」are used to express wishes and expectations about hypothetical situations, emphasizing what might happen under certain conditions. These expressions are common in everyday conversation and effectively convey the speaker's emotions and thoughts.