All JLPT grammar
N2

~ものの、~

Indicates contrast or contradiction between two clauses; 'although', 'but'.

At a glance

~ものの means "although" or "even though". It accepts the first fact, then states a result that goes against what you would expect. It sounds formal and is common in writing.

[Clause A (plain form)] ものの、[Clause B]

試験しけんに合格ごうかくしたものの、仕事しごとが見みつからない。 Although I passed the exam, I can't find a job.


How to form it

ものの usually follows the plain form.

Attaches to Form Example
Verb Plain form (dictionary, ない, た) 行いったものの
い-adjective Plain form 高たかいものの / 高たかかったものの
な-adjective な or である 便利べんりなものの / 便利べんりであるものの
Noun である, or past だった 学生がくせいであるものの / 学生がくせいだったものの

Register: formal. It is common in writing, news and speeches.

Examples

  • 早起はやおきしたものの、バスに間まに合あわなかった。

    Even though I got up early, I didn't catch the bus in time.

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The rest of the lesson

When to use it, common mistakes, nuances and a quick check, with spaced repetition to make it stick.

Read the full lesson for free