〜かと思いきや

Thought it was..., but...; Expected..., but...

1. Overview

「〜かと思いきや」 is an expression used to describe the discrepancy between expectations and the actual situation. It is often used to indicate a misunderstanding or surprise regarding a particular outcome.

2. Structure

• Verb (plain form) / Adjective (plain form) / Noun + かと思いきや
• This structure is used to contrast an anticipated state with the actual result.

3. Usage Explanation

• Indicates an unexpected result:
  This expression emphasizes that the outcome of a situation differs from what was initially expected.

• Expresses a turn of events:
  It often introduces information that contrasts with what was previously stated, creating a strong juxtaposition.

• English translation:
  It can be translated as “thought it was..., but...” or “expected..., but...”.

4. Example Sentences

1. 彼は仕事ができるかと思いきや、実際は全然違った。
   I thought he was capable at work, but it turned out to be completely different.

2. この映画は面白いかと思いきや、退屈だった。
   I expected this movie to be interesting, but it was actually boring.

3. 彼女は優しいかと思いきや、意外と冷たい。
   I thought she was kind, but surprisingly she was quite cold.

4. この問題は簡単かと思いきや、実は難しかった。
   I thought this problem was easy, but it was actually difficult.

5. 旅行は楽しいかと思いきや、疲れた。
   I expected the trip to be fun, but it was exhausting.

5. Key Points to Note

• Tone:
  This expression typically carries a tone of surprise or disappointment, reflecting the gap between expectation and reality.

• Applicable Range:
  It can be used in both spoken and written language, suitable for various contexts.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜と思ったら:
  Used to indicate a sudden turn of events, often emphasizing something unexpected that happens.
  • Example: 彼はすぐに帰ると思ったら、まだいた。
    I thought he would leave right away, but he was still here.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜にしては:
  Used to indicate a situation that does not match expectations, typically focusing on a standard or expectation.
  • Example: 彼は学生にしては、とても上手だ。
    For a student, he is very skilled.

8. Summary

「〜かと思いきや」 is an effective expression that highlights the discrepancy between expectations and actual results. It is applicable in various contexts and clearly conveys feelings of surprise or disappointment.