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Definition
The grammar pattern '名詞+の / 活用語連体形 + こととて' is a very formal and polite way to explain a reason or cause for a situation. It implies 'since it is [condition], please forgive/understand' and is often used when apologizing for a mistake or requesting understanding. This pattern is particularly useful in situations where a more casual or assertive tone would be inappropriate. It is essential to use this pattern correctly to convey the intended meaning and avoid misunderstandings.
Structure
| Form | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 連体形 | 名詞+の / 活用語連体形 + こととて | 不慣れなこととて、皆様には多大なるご迷惑をおかけいたしました。 |
| 仮定形 | 名詞+の / 活用語仮定形 + こととて | 子供のしたこととて、どうぞ大目に見てやってください。 |
| 能動形 | 名詞+の / 活用語能動形 + こととて | なにぶん急なこととて、十分な準備ができず申し訳ございません。 |
Examples
不慣れなこととて、皆様には多大なるご迷惑をおかけいたしました。
Fukanrenai koto to te, minasan ni wa taiyōnaru go meiwaku o kake itashimashita.
Since I was not familiar with it, I caused you great inconvenience.
不慣れなこととて (Since I was not familiar with it) 皆様には多大なるご迷惑をおかけいたしました (I caused you great inconvenience)
なにぶん急なこととて、十分な準備ができず申し訳ございません。
Nani buin kyūna koto to te, jūbun na junbi ga dekinai to shōnaiwake gozaimasen.
Since it was very urgent, I was not prepared and I apologize.
なにぶん急なこととて (Since it was very urgent) 十分な準備ができず (I was not prepared) 申し訳ございません (I apologize)
子供のしたこととて、どうぞ大目に見てやってください。
Kodomo no shita koto to te, dōzo dai me ni mi te yatte kudasai.
Since the child did it, please forgive and understand.
子供のしたこととて (Since the child did it) どうぞ大目に見てやってください (Please forgive and understand)
Context
This pattern is used in very formal and polite contexts, particularly when apologizing for a mistake or requesting understanding. It is essential to use this pattern correctly to convey the intended meaning and avoid misunderstandings. This pattern is often confused with 'mono dakara', which is much more common and casual.
Watch out
This pattern is too formal and polite for assertive or aggressive contexts.
Omitting 'の' can change the meaning of the sentence and make it less formal and polite.
This pattern is too formal and polite for casual contexts, and 'mono dakara' is more suitable.
Strategy
When using this pattern in the JLPT exam, make sure to use the correct form and pattern, and pay attention to the context and tone. This pattern is often tested in formal and polite contexts, so be prepared to use it correctly.
In context
Worked examples drawn from JLPT N1 test-style questions. Each sentence shows 名詞+の / 活用語連体形 + こととて used correctly, with a brief note on what the pattern is doing.
不慣れなこととて、皆様には多大なるご迷惑をおかけいたしました。
Pattern used: こととて
'Koto tote' is the most humble and formal way to ask for forgiveness due to inexperience.
なにぶん急なこととて、十分な準備ができず申し訳ございません。
Pattern used: こととて
Used with 'kyu' (sudden), 'koto tote' creates a formal apology for lack of preparation.
子供のしたこととて、どうぞ大目に見てやってください。
Pattern used: こととて
'Koto tote' is used here to seek leniency by explaining the reason (it was a child's doing).
Interactive
不慣れな______、皆様には多大なるご迷惑をおかけいたしました。
Adaptive practice
Our adaptive engine will quiz you on this grammar pattern and track your progress toward mastery.