N146/187

ところを

Verb (て-form) + いるところをNoun + のところをな-adjective + なところを

Meanings

  • When
  • While
  • In spite of (the circumstances)
  • Regardless of (the circumstances)

About this pattern

Explanation

ところを is used to acknowledge a situation or circumstance before pointing out a contrasting or surprising action, often in a tone of apology or interruption. It highlights that the speaker is aware of the busy, difficult, or inconvenient state of affairs, but proceeds to do or say something that might be unexpected given that state. It often comes with expressions like すみません、やあいながら, or used when interrupting someone or drawing attention to a contrast between the current situation and the speaker’s request or action.