GRAMMAR DETAIL
に反して
Indicates that the actual result is contrary to an expectation, rule, or wish.
Examples
試験の結果は周囲の予想に反して良かった。
The test result was good, contrary to everyone's expectations.
Words used
予想に反して、試合は短時間で終わった。
Contrary to expectations, the game ended quickly.
Words used
期待に反して、新製品はあまり売れなかった。
Contrary to expectations, the new product did not sell very well.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure: Attach
に反して（にはんして）to a noun for an expectation, hope, or rule to connect a contrary result or action. - Basic usage:
期待に反して、新製品はあまり売れなかった。reports weak sales contrary to expectations.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- The direction of an unexpected result
- It can introduce a favorable outcome, as in
予想に反して良かった. The key is conflict with the expectation rather than whether the result is good or bad.
- It can introduce a favorable outcome, as in
- General contrast and violation of a standard
去年は寒かったのに今年は暖かいcontrasts two facts.規則に反して持ち込むspecifically describes bringing something in against a rule, a more precise relationship than simple difference.