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JLPT N1Grammar
~ときたら

when it comes to, speaking of

Intermediate
20-25 min
common
Expert Reviewed

Explanation

Introduces criticism or complaint about someone/something.

Formation

[Noun] + ときたら

Examples

うちの息子ときたら、全然勉強しない。

Uchi no musuko to kitara, zenzen benkyou shinai.

When it comes to my son, he doesn't study at all.

最近の若者ときたら、礼儀を知らない。

Saikin no wakamono to kitara, reigi wo shiranai.

Speaking of young people these days, they don't know manners.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Always implies criticism or complaint.

Study Tips

Memory Aids

  • ときたら = when it comes → speaking of (critical)

Practice Tips

Used for complaints.

JLPTBooks Editorial Team

Japanese Language Education Specialists

Last updated:

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