GRAMMAR DETAIL
〜と来たら
Raises a person or thing as a topic while expressing dissatisfaction or surprise about it.
Examples
隣の犬と来たら、夜中まで吠えて眠れない。
When it comes to the neighbor's dog, it barks until the middle of the night and keeps me awake.
Words used
あの人と来たら、約束の時間を守らない。
When it comes to that person, they never arrive at the agreed time.
Words used
うちの息子と来たら、靴を脱ぎっぱなしにする。
When it comes to my son, he takes off his shoes and leaves them lying there.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure:
と来たら（ときたら）introduces a person or thing as a topic while conveying a strong evaluation such as dissatisfaction or surprise. - Basic usage:
あの人と来たら、約束の時間を守らない。raises someone's failure to arrive on time with disapproval.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- A neutral topic versus the speaker's attitude
あの人は時間を守らないstates a behavior, whileあの人と来たら時間を守らないconveys stronger dissatisfaction. Using it directly about the listener can sound accusatory, so the relationship matters.