JLPT N2Grammar
~くせに
even though, despite, and yet
Beginner
15-20 min
common
Expert Reviewed
Explanation
Critical tone expressing disapproval or contradiction.
Formation
[Verb/い-adj/な-adj/Noun] + くせに
Examples
知らないくせに、知ったふりをする。
Shiranai kuse ni, shitta furi wo suru.
Even though he doesn't know, he pretends to know.
子供のくせに、生意気だ。
Kodomo no kuse ni, namaiki da.
Despite being a child, he's cheeky.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Often has negative or critical nuance.
More JLPT N2 Grammar
Study Tips
Memory Aids
- •くせ = habit → despite (critical)
Practice Tips
Be careful of critical tone.
JLPTBooks Editorial Team
Japanese Language Education Specialists
Last updated:
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