GRAMMAR DETAIL
〜あろうことか
Expresses strong surprise or criticism that an event far outside ordinary expectations actually occurred.
Examples
あろうことか、厳重に保管されていた原本が紛失していた。
Unbelievably, the original document that had been kept under tight security was missing.
Words used
あろうことか、鍵をかけずに家を出てしまった。
Unbelievably, I left the house without locking the door.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure:
あろうことかintroduces a shocking, unexpected event with surprise or criticism, much like ‘of all things.’ - Basic usage:
あろうことか、鍵をかけずに家を出てしまった。expresses dismay at having left home without locking up.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- An independent opening expression
あろうことかstands independently at the beginning to convey a reaction to the whole event that follows. Its finalかexpresses strong emotion rather than asking someone whether the event is true.