〜をものともせず

〜をものともせず is a set expression meaning undaunted by / in spite of. This is a fixed pattern or phrase commonly used in Japanese conversation and writing. Understanding set expressions helps you sound more natural and idiomatic.

This is a highly advanced pattern found mainly in literary works, formal speeches, legal documents, and academic writing. It is rarely used in casual conversation.

When to Use#

• When praising someone who perseveres despite serious obstacles
• When describing courage or determination in the face of difficulty

When NOT to Use#

• In casual conversation — this sounds literary or stiff; use a simpler expression

Example Sentences#

• 漆芸家は失敗をものともせず技法を磨き続けました。 — The lacquer artisan advanced his technique undeterred by failure.
• 舞踏家は怪我をものともせず伝統舞踊を続けました。 — The traditional dancer continued to perform undeterred by injury.
• 彼らは苦難をものともせず、平和構築に努めました。 — Undeterred by hardship, they worked to build peace.

Practice#

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

Common Mistakes#

1. Using 〜をものともせず interchangeably with 〜をよそに — These patterns are similar but not identical. 〜をよそに (ignoring / in defiance of) may be preferred in different contexts or registers.
2. Using 〜をものともせず in casual conversation — This pattern sounds overly formal or literary in casual speech. Reserve it for formal writing, presentations, or situations that call for elevated language.
3. Direct translation from English — The concept expressed by 〜をものともせず may not map one-to-one with its English translation. Focus on understanding the Japanese usage through example sentences rather than relying on the English gloss.

Related Patterns#

• 〜をよそに (ignoring / in defiance of) — Similar