ところ

Meaning

ところ indicates that you discovered or found out something as a result of performing an action. Both the first and second clauses use past tense forms. The pattern shows a cause-and-effect relationship where you try something and then learn an unexpected or notable result. The second clause cannot express intention or will.

Formation

Examples

1. 旅行会社に電話でツアーについて問い合わせてみたところ、そのツアーの予約受付はもう終わっていた。
   When I called the travel agency to inquire about the tour, I found out that the reservations had already closed.

2. 京都へ行ってみたところ、想像以上に美しかったです。
   When I visited Kyoto, it was far more beautiful than I had imagined.

3. 同窓会に参加したところ、担任の先生に5年ぶりに会った。
   When I attended the class reunion, I met my former homeroom teacher for the first time in five years.

4. 華道の先生が教えてくれた通りに生け花をしてみたところ、うまくできました。
   When I arranged flowers following the method my ikebana teacher taught me, it turned out quite well.

Summary

• Use ところ to express a discovery or result after trying or doing something (past tense + past tense)
• The second clause must be in past tense and cannot express intention, desire, or commands
• Typically shows an unexpected or noteworthy outcome revealed through the action in the first clause