N3 · Structured courses

Ka To Omou To: No Sooner Than

Two actions almost simultaneous or abrupt state change. This lesson combines form, context, examples, common mistakes, and practice so you can use the pattern in real communication.

12 minNihongo Hub Editorial TeamPublished 2026-06-06Updated 2026-06-06

Learning objectives

  • Lesson goals: Two actions almost simultaneous or abrupt state change.
  • Form and connection: [Verb ta-form] かと思おもうと
  • Nuance in real use: Captures the world's volatility—one moment this, the next moment that. The most direct grammatical description of impermanence.

Form and connection

[Verb ta-form] かと思おもうと

Core Explanation

Two actions almost simultaneous or abrupt state change.

Cultural Note

Captures the world's volatility—one moment this, the next moment that. The most direct grammatical description of impermanence.

Practical examples

The baby cried, and the next moment started laughing.
No sooner had he arrived than he left.

Common pitfalls

Build the base form before adding the pattern

Complete the required conjugation first. Do not keep polite and plain endings at the same time.

Match politeness to the situation

The examples are reliable starting points; relationships and context can still change the most natural wording.

Practice and answers

1. Write the connection formula for this lesson.
Show answer[Verb ta-form] かと思おもうと
2. Explain the meaning of the first example.
Show answerThe baby cried, and the next moment started laughing.
3. Rewrite the final example using this lesson pattern.
Show answer彼かれは来きたかと思おもうとすぐ帰かえった。 ([Verb ta-form] かと思おもうと)

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