〜たが最後

Once...; If... then...

1. Overview

「〜たが最後」 is a Japanese expression used to describe a situation where, once a certain condition is met, it will lead to an irreversible result or situation. It emphasizes the seriousness or inevitability of the outcome.

2. Structure

Grammar Structure:
- Verb (past tense) + が最後
Explanation: This expression indicates that once an action or state occurs, it will trigger severe consequences.

3. Usage Explanation

Continuation: It typically follows the past tense form of a verb to express a hypothetical condition and the resulting consequences.
Usage: This expression is applicable in both written and spoken language and is often used to describe potential negative outcomes.
Translation: Generally translated as "once... then..." or "if... then..."

4. Alternative Expressions

〜たら最後: Similar meaning, emphasizing the result under certain conditions.

5. Similar Grammar

〜たらおしまい: Also indicates that once something happens, there will be irreversible consequences.
〜ようなことになったら: Indicates that if a certain situation occurs, the consequences could be severe.

6. Notes

Context: 「〜たが最後」 is often used to emphasize the seriousness of the consequences, suitable for both formal and informal situations.
Tone: This expression usually carries a strong warning tone and is used to describe negative outcomes.

7. Example Sentences

彼に嘘をついたが最後、絶対に信じてもらえない。
Once you lie to him, you will never be believed again.
このまま怠けていたが最後、仕事を失ってしまう。
If I keep being lazy, I will end up losing my job.
約束を破ったが最後、友達を失うことになる。
Once you break a promise, you will lose friends.
このプロジェクトが失敗したが最後、会社が危うくなる。
If this project fails, the company will be in danger.
彼に逆らったが最後、手痛い目に遭う。
If you oppose him, you will suffer severe consequences.

8. Summary

「〜たが最後」 emphasizes the irreversible results that occur under specific conditions and is often used to express warnings about potential consequences. Understanding this expression helps better grasp the conditional and consequential relationships in Japanese.