ときている

To be extremely … / To be remarkably … (often beyond what is normal or expected)

This grammar is used to emphasize that a condition, tendency, or situation is unusually strong, serious, or extreme.

N1

Meaning

To be extremely … / To be remarkably … (often beyond what is normal or expected)

This grammar is used to emphasize that a condition, tendency, or situation is unusually strong, serious, or extreme.

Formation

い-adjective + ときている
な-adjective + ときている
Noun + ときている

Explanation

ときている is used when the speaker wants to strongly emphasize the degree or seriousness of something.

Core idea:

  • “It is really / extremely / remarkably …”

  • Stronger than simply saying ~い or ~だ

  • Often implies abnormality, intensity, or excess

Important nuance:

  • Frequently carries criticism or concern

  • Sometimes used with surprise or emphasis

  • The tone is subjective, not neutral

This grammar commonly appears in:

  • spoken Japanese

  • opinionated writing

  • narratives expressing strong impression

  • JLPT N1 passages testing tone and emphasis