〜に引換・にひきかえ

In contrast to...; Compared to...

1. Overview

「〜に引換」 or 「〜にひきかえ」 is a Japanese grammar structure used to express a sharp contrast between two people, things, or situations. It emphasizes how one side is notably different from the other, often implying one is better or worse than the other.

2. Structure

• Grammar Structure:

  • Noun + に引換 / にひきかえ

• Explanation:

  • Used to compare two subjects, highlighting how one contrasts with or differs from the other.

3. Usage Explanation

• Connection: It directly follows a noun to compare the subject to another entity or situation.

• Usage: Commonly used in both formal and informal situations, 「〜に引換」 is employed when pointing out the contrasting nature of two things.

• Translation: This structure is generally translated as "in contrast to..." or "compared to..."

4. Example Sentences

1. 兄に引換、弟はとても静かだ。
   In contrast to his older brother, the younger brother is very quiet.

2. 昨年に引換、今年の冬は寒い。
   Compared to last year, this winter is cold.

3. 彼の部屋に引換、私の部屋はとても汚い。
   In contrast to his room, my room is very messy.

4. 姉に引換、妹はとても活発だ。
   In contrast to her older sister, the younger sister is very energetic.

5. 前回の試験に引換、今回はとても難しかった。
   Compared to the previous exam, this one was very difficult.

5. Alternative Grammar

• 〜に比べて (〜にくらべて): Also used to express comparison, but more neutral and without the strong contrast implied by 「〜に引換」.

  • Example: 兄に比べて、弟はおとなしい。
    Compared to his older brother, the younger brother is quiet.

• 〜と違って (〜とちがって): Used to express differences between two subjects but is less formal.

  • Example: 日本語と違って、英語は文法が簡単だ。
    Unlike Japanese, English grammar is simple.

6. Related Grammar

• 〜に対して (〜にたいして): Often used to show opposition or contrast between two subjects.

  • Example: 彼は外向的なのに対して、彼女は内向的だ。
    He is extroverted, whereas she is introverted.

7. Key Points to Note

• Tone:

  • 「〜に引換」 implies a noticeable contrast, often suggesting that one side is superior or inferior to the other.

• Usage Context:

  • It is frequently used in both spoken and written Japanese to highlight clear differences between two things or situations.

8. Summary

「〜に引換」 is a grammatical structure used to express sharp contrast between two subjects. It emphasizes the differences, often implying that one side is better or worse. It is used similarly to structures like 「〜に比べて」 but carries a stronger sense of contrast.