GRAMMAR DETAIL
〜ところだった
Indicates that an outcome was just about to occur but ultimately did not.
Examples
もう少しで電車に乗り遅れるところだった。
I almost missed the train.
Words used
あと一歩で階段から落ちるところだった。
One more step and I would have fallen down the stairs.
Words used
信号を見落として事故を起こすところだった。
I overlooked the traffic light and almost caused an accident.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure: Add
ところだったto a dictionary-form verb to describe an outcome that nearly happened but was averted. - Basic usage:
あと一歩で階段から落ちるところだった。describes a close call in which one more step could have caused a fall down the stairs.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- Dictionary form versus ta-form
転ぶところだったdescribes almost falling, whereas転んだところだったcan describe the point just after a fall. Use the dictionary form beforeところだったfor the close call in which the outcome did not occur.