JLPT N1
ともすると
Apt to / Tend to (easily)
Structure
ともすると Plain form
How it works
This grammar point is used to express a tendency or a high probability of something undesirable happening 'if one isn't careful.' It often implies that while the situation isn't guaranteed, things easily tilt toward a negative direction. It is a formal expression frequently used with '〜がちだ' or '〜かねない'.
Examples
ともすると、私たちは大切なことを見失いがちだ。
We are apt to lose sight of what is truly important.
入院生活が長引くと、ともすると弱気になってしまう。
When a stay in the hospital is prolonged, one is prone to losing heart.
この種の議論は、ともすると感情論になりかねない。
This kind of discussion can easily turn into an emotional argument.
Common mistakes
Mixing it up with 'ともかく' (anyway/setting aside). 'ともすると' specifically indicates a negative tendency or risk, not a shift in topic.
Tip
Think of it as 'given the slightest chance, things will go wrong.' It is almost always paired with negative outcomes or patterns.
More JLPT N1 grammar
See ともすると in real Japanese
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