〜そばから

Says that as soon as A is done, B undoes it, again and again. Used for repeated, often frustrating situations.

〜してもすぐに、繰り返し元に戻ってしまう意の表現。

Formation: V-dict + そばから ／ V-ta + そばから

Example sentences

  1. 覚えるそばから忘れてしまい、情けない。

    おぼえるそばからわすれてしまい、なさけない。

    I forget things as fast as I learn them, which is pathetic.

  2. 片づけるそばから子どもが散らかす。

    かたづけるそばからこどもがちらかす。

    No sooner do I tidy up than the children make a mess again.

  3. 注意したそばから同じミスを繰り返す。

    ちゅういしたそばからおなじミスをくりかえす。

    The moment after being warned, he repeats the same mistake.

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