〜ところ

〜ところ is a verb form expressing about to / just did. Understanding this conjugation pattern is essential for expanding what you can express in Japanese. Verb forms are the backbone of Japanese grammar — each form unlocks new ways to describe actions, states, and intentions.

This is an upper-intermediate pattern common in natural conversation and media like news, novels, and dramas.

When to Use#

• When an action is about to happen (Vるところ)
• When an action was just completed (Vたところ)
• When an action is currently in progress (Vているところ)

When NOT to Use#

• When the meaning is closer to "just did ~" — use 〜たばかり instead

Example Sentences#

• 専攻を選ぶところでした。 — I was just choosing a major.
• 今、会社を出るところです。 — I'm just about to leave the office.
• 意味を調べるところでした。 — I was just about to look up the meaning.

Practice#

Try reading these sentences aloud, then check the translation and vocabulary:

Common Mistakes#

1. Confusing 〜ところ with 〜たばかり — While both are related, 〜ところ expresses "about to / just did" whereas 〜たばかり expresses "just did ~." Pay attention to the specific nuance each pattern conveys.
2. Wrong verb group conjugation — Group 1 and Group 2 verbs conjugate differently. Common pitfall: treating Group 1 verbs ending in る (like 帰る) as Group 2 verbs.

Related Patterns#

• 〜たばかり (just did ~) — Compare