N2 · Structured courses

～ni Hanshite: Contrary To (Advanced)

Learn ni hanshite for "contrary to expectations/rules" — emphasizing the gap between expectation and reality. 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: Learn ni hanshite for "contrary to expectations/rules" — emphasizing the gap between expectation and reality.
  • Form and connection: [Noun] に反はんして（期待/予想）
  • Nuance in real use: に反して depicts "the betrayal between expectation and reality" — you expected A, but reality is the opposite B. In Japanese society, it's commonly used to euphemistically describe disappointing results.

Form and connection

[Noun] に反はんして（期待/予想）

Core Explanation

Learn ni hanshite for "contrary to expectations/rules" — emphasizing the gap between expectation and reality.

Cultural Note

に反して depicts "the betrayal between expectation and reality" — you expected A, but reality is the opposite B. In Japanese society, it's commonly used to euphemistically describe disappointing results.

Practical examples

Contrary to expectations, the result was bad.
Contrary to predictions, the test was easy.
Actions contrary to the law are not permitted.

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[Noun] に反はんして（期待/予想）
2. Explain the meaning of the first example.
Show answerContrary to expectations, the result was bad.
3. Rewrite the final example using this lesson pattern.
Show answer法律ほうりつに反はんする行為こういは許ゆるされない。 ([Noun] に反はんして（期待/予想）)

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