をよそに
in disregard of; in defiance of; ignoring; despite (others’ feelings / expectations)
N1
Meaning
in disregard of; in defiance of; ignoring; despite (others’ feelings / expectations)
Formation
Noun + をよそに
Explanation
をよそに is used to express that someone acts or something happens while completely ignoring concerns, expectations, warnings, or reactions from others.
It emphasizes a contrast:
what others think, feel, or expect
vswhat actually happens
The nuance is often critical, ironic, or surprised, and it highlights that the subject pays no attention to the surrounding situation or opinions.
This grammar is mainly used in written or formal Japanese, such as news articles, commentary, essays, and JLPT N1 reading passages.