GRAMMAR DETAIL
〜くせに
Expresses dissatisfaction or blame by contrasting a known fact with behavior regarded as unjustified.
Examples
彼は事情を知っているくせに、何も言わなかった。
Even though he knew the circumstances, he did not say anything.
Words used
自分で約束したくせに、時間を守らなかった。
Even though he made the promise himself, he was not on time.
Words used
何も手伝わないくせに、文句ばかり言う。
Even though you do not help with anything, all you do is complain.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure: Add
くせにto a plain clause, a noun followed byの, or a na-adjective followed byなto express a blaming contrast. - Basic usage:
何も手伝わないくせに、文句ばかり言う。criticizes complaining while doing nothing to help.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- Contrast and the strength of blame
知っているのに言わないcontrasts knowing with not speaking, while知っているくせに言わないmore strongly blames that behavior. Addressing someone directly this way can sound hostile.
- Who the clauses refer to
- In
約束したくせに時間を守らない, the person who made the promise is also the person who is not punctual. The first fact provides grounds for criticizing that person's subsequent behavior.
- In