What is the difference between “落ちそうだった” (ochisou datta) and “落ちるところだった” (ochiru tokoro datta)?
In what situations do we differentiate between “落ちそうだった” (ochisou datta) and “落ちるところだった” (ochiru tokoro datta)?Do both expressions convey the idea that something was on the verge of falling?
Both “落ちそうだった” (ochisou datta) and “落ちるところだった” (ochiru tokoro datta) indicate that something was at risk of falling, but there are subtle differences in nuance.
In this explanation, Eri from JPLT Online Japanese Language School will clarify these distinctions for Japanese learners.
What Does “落ちそうだった” (ochisou datta) Mean?
“落ちそうだった” (ochisou datta) describes a state just before something actually falls.
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Specific Danger: It emphasizes the actual instability of an object, highlighting the moment it is about to fall.
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Visual Imagery: It provides a clearer image of the moment just before the fall.Example Sentences:
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コップがテーブルの端から落ちそうだった (Koppu ga tēburu no hashi kara ochisou datta): The cup was slightly over the edge of the table, on the verge of falling.
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子供が階段から落ちそうだった (Kodomo ga kaidan kara ochisou datta): The child nearly slipped off the landing of the stairs and was about to fall.
What Does “落ちるところだった” (ochiru tokoro datta) Mean?
“落ちるところだった” (ochiru tokoro datta) emphasizes that although something was very close to falling, it ultimately did not.
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Near Miss: This phrase highlights the critical situation where falling was imminent but did not happen.
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Sense of Relief: It conveys a feeling of relief that the fall did not actually occur.Example Sentences:
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電車に飛び込みそうだった (Densha ni tobimari sou datta): I almost jumped onto the tracks when the train approached, but I regained my composure and stopped myself.
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高所から物が落ちてきて、頭に当たる所だった (Kōsho kara mono ga ochite kite, atama ni ataru tokoro datta): An object fell from a high window, narrowly missing my head, and I was fortunate it didn’t hit me.
Summary of Differences Between “落ちそうだった” and “落ちるところだった”
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Phrase
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Features
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Situational Use
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落ちそうだった (ochisou datta)
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On the verge of falling
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When something was unstable or tilting visually
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落ちるところだった (ochiru tokoro datta)
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Did not actually fall but was close
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In a dangerous situation with a sense of relief
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Which Should You Use?
The choice between these phrases depends on the specific situation and what you want to convey:
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If something was genuinely unstable or leaning: “落ちそうだった” (ochisou datta).
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If it was a close call but ultimately did not fall: “落ちるところだった” (ochiru tokoro datta).
Conclusion: Distinguishing Between “落ちそうだった” and “落ちるところだった”
While both expressions convey the possibility of something falling, their nuances differ significantly. “落ちそうだった” (ochisou datta) emphasizes the actual instability or tilting of an object and creates a more vivid image, whereas “落ちるところだった” (ochiru tokoro datta) conveys a sense of a near miss, highlighting the relief of not having fallen.
In the Japanese language, numerous expressions depict similar situations but require careful differentiation based on their nuances and context. By delving deeper into each term, you can appreciate the richness of the Japanese language and enhance your expression. If you’re interested in exploring more about Japanese expressions and want to learn further, visit the JPLT Online Japanese Language School. It’s a global community where people come together to learn Japanese for free. We offer a wide range of courses, from JLPT preparation to daily conversation practice. Just like “落ちそうだった” (ochisou datta) and “落ちるところだった” (ochiru tokoro datta), the world of Japanese is filled with new discoveries, much like a treasure hunt.
