〜ようものなら

If...; Should...

1. Translation

「〜ようものなら」 is used to express a hypothetical situation, suggesting that if a certain extreme or undesirable condition occurs, it will lead to serious consequences. It is commonly used in conditional clauses that imply that the result would be unacceptable or very severe if that situation were to happen.

2. Structure

• Verb (volitional form) + ものなら

3. Usage Explanation

• Hypothetical Extreme Situations:
  This structure is used to hypothesize about undesirable or extreme situations, emphasizing that if such a condition were to happen, the consequences would be severe.

• Emphasizing Serious Consequences:
  It is often used to express warnings or concerns, indicating that if something happens, the outcome would be difficult to bear or unacceptable.

• English Equivalent:
  Similar to "if... were to happen" or "should... occur."

4. Example Sentences

1. 彼女に嘘をつこうものなら、きっと許してくれないだろう。
   If I were to lie to her, she certainly wouldn’t forgive me.

2. そんな危ない場所に行こうものなら、怪我をしてしまうかもしれない。
   If I were to go to such a dangerous place, I might get hurt.

3. 社長に逆らおうものなら、会社にいられなくなるだろう。
   If I were to go against the president, I would probably lose my job.

4. ここでミスしようものなら、全てが無駄になってしまう。
   If I were to make a mistake here, all previous efforts would be wasted.

5. そんなことを言おうものなら、みんなに嫌われてしまうよ。
   If I were to say something like that, everyone would end up hating me.

5. Key Points

• Extreme Hypotheses:
  This grammar structure is used to hypothesize an extreme or undesirable situation, assuming its serious consequences.

• Common in Negative Scenarios:
  The structure is often used in negative hypotheses, emphasizing that if the situation arises, the consequences are typically unfavorable.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜たら最後 (たらさいご): This structure indicates that "if something is done, there is no turning back," emphasizing the irreversibility of negative consequences.
  • Example: 彼に借金を頼んだら最後、二度と断れないだろう。
    Once I ask him for a loan, I won't be able to refuse again.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜ようなら: This structure is used to hypothesize that a certain condition holds, followed by the potential outcome. While often used in neutral or negative contexts, its tone is less strong than 「〜ようものなら」.
  • Example: 雨が降るようなら、試合は中止です。
    If it rains, the match will be canceled.

8. Summary

「〜ようものなら」 is used to express the serious consequences that would arise from a hypothetical extreme or negative situation. It carries a strong sense of warning or concern and is commonly seen in speculations or hypotheses about severe situations.