〜をよそに

Disregarding…; Ignoring…

1. Overview

「〜をよそに」 is a Japanese expression used to indicate that someone disregards or ignores a certain situation, expectation, or external opinion, and continues to act according to their own will. This phrase conveys the idea of paying no attention to what is happening around them.

2. Structure

• Grammar Structure:

  • Noun + をよそに

• Explanation:

  • 「よそ」 means "elsewhere" or "outside." In this grammatical structure, it implies ignoring or not paying attention to something.
  • It is used to express that someone is indifferent or unconcerned about the noun it follows, often regarding opinions, expectations, or circumstances.

3. Usage Explanation

• Connection: It attaches directly to nouns, typically those that refer to external circumstances or opinions, to express that the subject is ignoring them.

• Usage: This structure is commonly used when describing situations where a person disregards their surroundings, public opinion, or other people's expectations and continues to pursue their own path. It often carries a somewhat negative connotation.

• Translation: Common translations include "disregarding" or "ignoring."

4. Alternative Grammar

• 〜を気にしない: This is a simpler and more casual alternative that conveys the idea of not caring about or ignoring something. It lacks the formality and stronger nuance of 「〜をよそに」.

5. Similar Grammar

• 〜にもかかわらず: Used to mean "despite," it emphasizes the outcome despite the situation. More neutral in tone compared to 「〜をよそに」.
• 〜を押して: Used to mean "despite the difficulty," emphasizing acting despite obstacles or difficulties, often with a positive nuance.

6. Key Points to Note

• Negative Connotation: 「〜をよそに」 often implies a negative nuance, expressing indifference to external factors or ignoring something important.

• Subjective Usage: The expression often reflects the speaker's subjective judgment, implying that the subject is disregarding or paying no attention to others' thoughts or concerns.

7. Example Sentences

1. 彼は周囲の反対をよそに、計画を進めている。
   He is proceeding with the plan, disregarding the opposition around him.

2. 親の心配をよそに、彼女は一人で旅に出た。
   She went on a trip alone, ignoring her parents' concerns.

3. 住民の抗議をよそに、工事は進められた。
   The construction continued, ignoring the residents' protests.

4. 世間の批判をよそに、彼は新しい政策を強行した。
   He pushed through the new policy, disregarding public criticism.

5. 彼女は体調不良をよそに、毎日遅くまで仕事を続けている。
   She continues to work late every day, disregarding her poor health.

8. Summary

「〜をよそに」 is used to express situations where a person disregards or ignores external circumstances or the opinions of others and continues with their actions. It generally carries a negative nuance, implying that the subject is acting without concern for what others think or expect.