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と決めてたけど

B1 複合表現（動詞「決める」の過去形＋接続助詞「けど」） #14 most common 11 min read

と決めてたけど

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips と決めてたけど in 30 Seconds

Explanation と決めてたけど in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn how to express basic decisions using 'kimeru' (to decide). You might know 'kore ni shimasu' (I'll have this). The expression 'to kimete ta kedo' is a bit advanced for A1 because it involves the past continuous form and a conjunction. However, you can understand it as a way to say 'I said I would do X, but now I am doing Y.' Think of it as a bridge between two simple ideas. For example, 'I decided to go' + 'but' + 'I didn't go.' Even if you can't produce the whole phrase yet, recognizing 'kimete' (deciding) and 'kedo' (but) will help you follow basic stories about people changing their minds. Focus on the idea that 'kedo' always means a change is coming.

At the A2 level, you are familiar with the 'te-iru' form for ongoing actions. 'Kimete iru' means 'is in the state of having decided.' When you turn this into the past ('kimete ita') and add 'kedo,' you are describing a plan that didn't happen. This is very useful for making simple excuses. For example, 'I decided to study, but I slept.' (Benkyou suru to kimete ta kedo, nemashita). At this level, you should practice using the dictionary form of a verb before 'to kimete ta kedo.' It's a great way to start connecting your thoughts and explaining your actions to others in a more natural, less robotic way. You are moving from 'I did this' to 'I planned this, but this happened.'

B1 is the 'sweet spot' for this expression. You are now expected to describe experiences, events, dreams, and ambitions. 'To kimete ta kedo' allows you to talk about the 'path not taken.' It is essential for discussing personal resolutions, like diets, study habits, or career changes. You should be comfortable with the contracted form 'kimete ta' in casual speech and the full form 'kimete ita' in more formal writing. At this level, you can also start using it with the negative form of verbs, like 'tabenai to kimete ta kedo' (I had decided not to eat [it], but...). This shows a higher level of control over Japanese grammar and allows you to express the internal struggle between desire and discipline.

At the B2 level, you can use 'to kimete ta kedo' to add nuance to complex narratives. You might use it to describe a shift in a company's strategy or a character's development in a story. You understand that this phrase implies a certain level of commitment that was held over time. You can also distinguish it from similar phrases like 'tsumori datta' (intended to) or 'yotei datta' (was planned to). At B2, you should be able to use this expression in a variety of registers, perhaps using 'ga' or 'keredomo' instead of 'kedo' to sound more professional. You can also use it to explain why a previously held belief or prejudice has changed, showing a high degree of self-reflection.

For C1 learners, 'to kimete ta kedo' is a tool for precise storytelling and rhetorical effect. You might use it to set up a dramatic irony or to contrast a past self with a present self in an essay or a speech. You are aware of how this phrase interacts with other modal particles and how it can be used to subtly shift blame or express deep-seated regret. You might use more literary versions like 'kokoro ni chikatte ita ga' (I had sworn in my heart, but...) to achieve a similar but more intense effect. At this level, your usage is flawless, and you can use the phrase to navigate delicate social situations where you need to explain a change in a long-standing policy or personal stance with grace.

At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of the philosophical and psychological implications of 'to kimete ta kedo.' You can use it in high-level discourse to discuss the nature of human decision-making and the unpredictability of life. You might use it in literary analysis to discuss a protagonist's internal conflict or in a business negotiation to explain a pivot in strategy while maintaining absolute credibility. You understand the historical development of such expressions and can play with the language, perhaps using archaic or highly formal variations to create a specific tone. The expression is no longer just a grammar point; it is a flexible instrument for expressing the complexity of human intention.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

と決めてたけど in 30 Seconds

Expresses a past decision that was not carried out.
Combines 'to decide' (past continuous) with 'but'.
Often used for excuses, regrets, or explaining changes.
Common in both casual and semi-formal Japanese.

The expression と決めてたけど (to kimete ta kedo) is a sophisticated yet common Japanese construction used to describe a disconnect between a past intention and a current reality. At its core, it combines the verb kimeru (to decide) in its past continuous form (kimete ita, often contracted to kimete ta in speech) with the adversative conjunction kedo (but). This specific combination creates a nuanced meaning: "I had been in the state of having decided to do something, but [circumstances changed or I changed my mind]." Unlike a simple past tense decision (kimeta), the continuous form kimete ita suggests that the decision was held in the mind for a duration of time, making the eventual reversal feel more significant or requiring more justification.

Core Nuance: It emphasizes a 'state of mind' that existed leading up to a change. It is often used to express regret, an excuse, or a surprising turn of events.
Contracted Form: The 'i' in 'te-ita' is frequently dropped in casual speech, resulting in 'te-ta'. This makes the expression sound natural and conversational.

Japanese speakers use this phrase frequently in daily life to explain why they didn't follow through with a plan. For instance, if you planned to go to the gym but ended up staying home because it rained, you would use this expression to show that your original intent was firm. It softens the blow of a broken promise or a failed goal by highlighting that the intention was genuine. It is particularly useful in social contexts where maintaining harmony (wa) is important, as it explains the 'why' behind a change in behavior without sounding too blunt.

今日は自炊すると決めてたけど、仕事が遅くなったから外食にした。
(I had decided to cook for myself today, but since work got late, I ate out.)

In this example, the speaker isn't just saying they changed their mind; they are emphasizing that they had a plan (jisui suru - cooking for oneself) which was thwarted by external circumstances. The use of kimete ta implies that throughout the day, they were mentally prepared to cook. This adds a layer of 'unfulfilled expectation' that is central to the expression's utility.

Furthermore, this expression is a staple in internal monologues. When reflecting on personal growth or failures, Japanese people often use to kimete ta kedo to contrast their ideals with their actions. It serves as a linguistic bridge between the 'ideal self' who makes decisions and the 'real self' who navigates the complexities of daily life. Whether you are talking about a diet, a study schedule, or a career move, this phrase provides the necessary grammatical structure to contrast 'the plan' with 'the reality'.

一生独身でいると決めてたけど、彼に出会って考えが変わった。
(I had decided to stay single for life, but meeting him changed my mind.)

This deeper use shows how the expression can cover long-term life decisions as well as short-term daily plans. The versatility of to kimete ta kedo makes it an essential tool for B1 learners who are moving beyond simple sentences and starting to describe complex personal narratives and causal relationships.

To use と決めてたけど correctly, you must understand its grammatical foundation. The structure is almost always: [Verb in Dictionary Form] + と決めていた/決めてた + けど. Alternatively, you can use [Noun] + にしようと決めていたけど when choosing between options. The 'to' acts as a quotation particle, encapsulating the decision made in the mind.

Verb Connection: Use the plain form (dictionary form) of the verb. For example: iku (to go) becomes iku to kimete ta.
Negative Intentions: Use the negative plain form: iwanai (not to say) becomes iwanai to kimete ta (I had decided not to say anything).

The choice between kimete ita and kimete ta is purely one of formality. Kimete ita is standard and appropriate for writing or polite speech, while kimete ta is the colloquial contraction used in daily conversation. The kedo at the end can also be replaced with more formal alternatives like keredomo or ga depending on the desired level of politeness and the context of the conversation.

もうお菓子は食べないと決めてたけど、誘惑に負けてしまった。
(I had decided not to eat sweets anymore, but I gave in to temptation.)

When using this with nouns, the structure changes slightly to include the volitional form of the copula: [Noun] ni shiyou to kimete ta. This literally means "I had decided 'let's make it [Noun]', but...". This is common when ordering at a restaurant or choosing a destination. For example, Ramen ni shiyou to kimete ta kedo, karee ni shita (I had decided on ramen, but I went with curry).

One important aspect to master is the tense of the second clause. Since to kimete ta kedo sets up a contrast with the past, the following clause usually describes what actually happened, often in the past tense. However, if the change of heart is happening right now, the second clause can be in the present tense. For example: Kawanai to kimete ta kedo, yappari hoshii (I had decided not to buy it, but as I thought, I want it).

10時までには寝ると決めてたけど、YouTubeを見始めたら止まらなくなった。
(I had decided to go to bed by 10, but once I started watching YouTube, I couldn't stop.)

This pattern is incredibly productive. You can plug in almost any action to describe the struggle between your plans and your reality. It is a key building block for expressing human fallibility and the fluid nature of plans in Japanese.

You will encounter と決めてたけど in a wide variety of social settings, from casual chats with friends to semi-formal workplace debriefs. It is one of those phrases that bridges the gap between 'textbook Japanese' and 'real-world Japanese.' In the workplace, it’s often used when a project direction changes. A manager might say, "We had decided to launch in April, but..." (Shigatsu ni rilisu suru to kimete ta kedo...). This signals to the team that while the intention was there, external factors like bugs or market shifts forced a change.

In Anime and Drama: Characters often use this during emotional climaxes. 'I decided I wouldn't cry, but...' or 'I decided I would do it alone, but...' are classic tropes that use this grammar to show character growth or vulnerability.
In Shopping and Consumerism: You'll hear this at malls or restaurants. 'I decided not to buy any more clothes, but this one is too cute!'

Social media is another place where this expression thrives. On platforms like X (Twitter) or Instagram, users post about their daily struggles. A common post might involve a photo of a delicious ramen bowl with the caption: "I had decided to go on a diet starting today, but..." (Kyou kara daietto suru to kimete ta kedo...). Here, the phrase acts as a relatable 'confession' that invites engagement from followers who have felt the same way.

大学に行かないと決めてたけど、先生の話を聞いて受験することにした。
(I had decided not to go to university, but after hearing my teacher's talk, I decided to take the entrance exams.)

In more serious contexts, such as news interviews or documentaries, people use this to explain life-altering decisions. A person who moved from the city to the countryside might say they had decided to live in Tokyo forever, but a specific event changed their perspective. The use of kimete ta provides a narrative weight, showing that the previous life path was a conscious choice, not just a random occurrence.

Finally, you will hear this in 'excuse culture.' When someone is late or fails to deliver something, they might start with to kimete ta kedo to show their good intentions. While it doesn't erase the failure, it contextualizes it as an exception to their usual character. This is a vital part of Japanese social navigation, where demonstrating effort and intent is often as important as the outcome itself.

定時で帰ると決めてたけど、急なトラブルで残業になった。
(I had decided to leave on time, but due to a sudden trouble, I had to work overtime.)

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing と決めてたけど with the simple past と決めたけど. While they look similar, the nuance is quite different. Kimeta kedo refers to a single point in time when a decision was made. Kimete ta kedo refers to a state of having held that decision over a period. If you say Iku to kimeta kedo, it sounds like you made the decision just a moment ago and immediately changed your mind. Kimete ta kedo implies you had been planning to go for a while.

Mistake 1: Wrong Particle: Using 'wo' instead of 'to'. You cannot say 'iku wo kimete ta'. The 'to' is required because it quotes the content of the decision.
Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Tsumori': 'Tsumori datta' means 'I intended to', but 'Kimete ta' is stronger. It implies a firm decision or a vow to oneself.

Another common error involves the tense of the verb before the 'to'. Learners sometimes try to put that verb into the past tense, like itta to kimete ta. This is incorrect. The decision is about a future action (relative to the time of the decision), so the verb must be in the dictionary form (or negative plain form). Think of it as: I decided [to do X]. The [to do X] part is always in the present/future form within the quote.

❌ 行ったと決めてたけど (I had decided I went...)
✅ 行くと決めてたけど (I had decided to go...)

Learners also struggle with the level of resolve. Kimete ta is quite strong. If you just had a vague idea of doing something, omotte ta (I was thinking of...) or shiyou to shite ta (I was trying to...) might be more appropriate. Using kimete ta for a trivial, fleeting thought can sound overly dramatic or slightly unnatural. Reserve it for things you actually 'set' as a plan or a rule for yourself.

Lastly, don't forget the kedo part. If you just say to kimete ta, the sentence feels unfinished. The listener is waiting for the 'but'—the explanation of what actually happened. In Japanese conversation, leaving the sentence hanging at kedo... is a common way to trail off and let the listener infer the rest, but in formal writing, you should complete the thought.

A: 飲みに行かない？ (Want to go for a drink?)
B: 今日は勉強すると決めてたけど...まあ、いいか！ (I had decided to study today, but... oh well, why not!)

Understanding the alternatives to と決めてたけど will help you choose the right level of intensity and formality for your situation. The most common alternative is tsumori datta kedo. While both express unfulfilled intentions, tsumori is softer and refers to a general intention or plan. Kimete ta implies a more definitive choice or a personal resolution.

〜するつもりだったけど: "I intended to..." Used for general plans. Less firm than 'kimete ta'.
〜するはずだったけど: "I was supposed to..." Implies an expectation or an objective schedule rather than a personal decision.
〜しようと思ってたけど: "I was thinking of doing..." The most casual and least committed form. It suggests a passing thought rather than a firm decision.

In more formal or professional settings, you might use yotei deshita ga (it was the plan, but...). This shifts the focus from your personal decision-making to the objective schedule. If you are talking about a company policy or a team agreement, to iu koto ni natte ita ga (it had been decided that..., but...) is a very common way to describe a change in plans without taking personal responsibility for the original decision.

比較 (Comparison):
1. 買うと決めてたけど (I had decided to buy - Firm resolution)
2. 買うつもりだったけど (I intended to buy - General plan)
3. 買おうと思ってたけど (I was thinking of buying - Casual thought)

Another interesting alternative is kokoro ni kimete ita kedo (I had decided in my heart, but...). This adds a poetic or deeply personal touch, often used when talking about love, dreams, or life-long goals. It emphasizes that the decision was not just a logical choice but an emotional commitment.

Finally, consider the ending. Instead of kedo, you can use noni to express a stronger sense of regret or frustration. Iku to kimete ta noni! (Even though I had decided to go!) sounds much more emotional and disappointed than the relatively neutral kedo. Choosing the right 'but' conjunction is just as important as the 'decided' part for conveying your true feelings.

絶対合格すると決めてたけど、現実は甘くなかった。
(I had decided I would definitely pass, but reality wasn't so easy.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The contraction from 'kimete ita' to 'kimete ta' is a hallmark of the 'Edo-ben' influence on modern standard Japanese, where vowels are often dropped for speed and efficiency in speech.

Pronunciation Guide

UK N/A (Japanese Expression)

US N/A

No strong word stress as in English; pitch accent is relatively flat with a slight rise on 'me' and a drop on 'do'.

Rhymes With

Shitetakedo (してたけど) Mitetakedo (見てたけど) Kitetakedo (来てたけど) Ittetakedo (言ってたけど) Mattetakedo (待ってたけど) Nattetakedo (なってたけど) Yattetakedo (やってたけど) Mottetakedo (持ってたけど)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'to' as 'too' (it should be short 'toh').
Over-emphasizing the 'i' in 'ita' when using the contracted 'ta'.
Stress on the wrong syllable, making it sound like a question.
Pausing too long between 'kimete' and 'ta'.
Making 'kedo' sound like 'kay-doh' instead of 'keh-doh'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Requires knowledge of Kanji (決) and the 'te-iru' grammar.

Writing 3/5

Need to remember the 'to' particle and the past continuous conjugation.

Speaking 2/5

The contraction 'te-ta' is very natural and easy to say once practiced.

Listening 2/5

Common in speech, easy to identify by the 'kedo' ending.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

決める (Kimeru) けど (Kedo) 〜ている (Te-iru)

Learn Next

〜はずだった (Hazu datta) 〜つもりだった (Tsumori datta) 〜のに (Noni)

Advanced

〜ざるを得ない (Zaru wo enai) 〜を余儀なくされる (Wo yogi naku sareru)

Grammar to Know

Quotation Particle 'to'

「行く」と決める。

Past Continuous '-te ita'

決めていた。

Adversative Conjunction 'kedo'

決めていたけど、行かなかった。

Contraction 'te-ita' to 'te-ta'

決めてた。

Volitional + to kimeru

行こうと決める。

Examples by Level

行くときめてたけど、いきませんでした。

I had decided to go, but I didn't go.

Simple use of dictionary form + to kimete ta kedo.

買うときめてたけど、お金がありませんでした。

I had decided to buy it, but I had no money.

Connecting a decision to a reason (no money).

食べるときめてたけど、おなかがいっぱいです。

I had decided to eat, but I am full.

Contrast between past plan and current physical state.

見るときめてたけど、ねてしまいました。

I had decided to watch it, but I fell asleep.

Common excuse for missing a show.

言うときめてたけど、わすれました。

I had decided to say it, but I forgot.

Using 'wasuremashita' (forgot) as the result.

やるときめてたけど、時間がありません。

I had decided to do it, but I have no time.

Present tense result: 'arimasen'.

会うときめてたけど、雨でした。

I had decided to meet, but it was raining.

External reason: 'ame deshita'.

書くときめてたけど、ペンがありません。

I had decided to write, but I have no pen.

Simple noun-based reason.

勉強すると決めてたけど、友達が来ました。

I had decided to study, but a friend came over.

Using Kanji for 'Benkyou' and 'Tomodachi'.

走ると決めてたけど、足が痛くなりました。

I had decided to run, but my leg started to hurt.

Verb 'itaku narimashita' (became painful).

お酒を飲まないと決めてたけど、一杯だけ飲みました。

I had decided not to drink alcohol, but I had just one glass.

Negative form 'nomanai' before 'to'.

早く起きると決めてたけど、無理でした。

I had decided to wake up early, but it was impossible.

Using 'muri' (impossible) to show failure.

自炊すると決めてたけど、コンビニで買いました。

I had decided to cook for myself, but I bought something at the convenience store.

Contrast between 'jisui' (home cooking) and 'konbini'.

掃除すると決めてたけど、テレビを見てしまいました。

I had decided to clean, but I ended up watching TV.

Using 'te-shimatta' for regret.

電話すると決めてたけど、夜遅くなりました。

I had decided to call, but it got late at night.

Reason: 'yoru osoku narimashita'.

買わないと決めてたけど、安かったから買いました。

I had decided not to buy it, but it was cheap, so I bought it.

Using 'kara' (because) for the reason.

今日こそは定時で帰ると決めてたけど、急ぎの仕事が入った。

I had decided to leave on time today of all days, but urgent work came in.

Use of 'koso' for emphasis and 'isogi no shigoto'.

彼にはもう会わないと決めてたけど、連絡が来ると心が揺れる。

I had decided not to see him anymore, but when he contacts me, my heart wavers.

Emotional expression 'kokoro ga yureru'.

ダイエット中だから甘いものは控えると決めてたけど、誘惑に負けた。

I'm on a diet, so I had decided to cut back on sweets, but I gave in to temptation.

Use of 'hikaeru' (to refrain) and 'yuuwaku ni maketa'.

週末は家でゆっくりすると決めてたけど、天気がいいから出かけることにした。

I had decided to relax at home this weekend, but since the weather is nice, I decided to go out.

Change of plan based on weather.

自分からは謝らないと決めてたけど、やっぱり気まずいから謝った。

I had decided not to be the one to apologize, but it was awkward after all, so I did.

Use of 'jibun kara' (from oneself).

この本は一日で読み切ると決めてたけど、意外と難しくて時間がかかっている。

I had decided to finish reading this book in one day, but it's unexpectedly difficult and taking time.

Compound verb 'yomi-kiru' (read completely).

無駄遣いはしないと決めてたけど、限定品という言葉に弱い。

I had decided not to waste money, but I'm weak for the words 'limited edition'.

Expression 'kotoba ni yowai' (weak for words/susceptible).

転職はしないと決めてたけど、もっといい条件の会社を見つけてしまった。

I had decided not to change jobs, but I ended up finding a company with better conditions.

Business context: 'tenshoku' (job change).

一生この街で暮らすと決めてたけど、海外赴任の話が来て迷っている。

I had decided to live in this city for the rest of my life, but I'm wavering because of an overseas assignment offer.

Advanced vocabulary: 'kaigai funin' (overseas assignment).

政治には関わらないと決めてたけど、今の状況を見て黙っていられなくなった。

I had decided not to get involved in politics, but seeing the current situation, I couldn't stay silent anymore.

Potential negative 'damatte irarenaku natta'.

一人で生きていくと決めてたけど、彼女の優しさに触れて考えが変わった。

I had decided to live alone, but experiencing her kindness changed my mind.

Abstract concept 'yasashisa ni fureru'.

絶対に泣かないと決めてたけど、卒業式の答辞を聞いて涙が溢れた。

I had decided I definitely wouldn't cry, but hearing the graduation valedictory, tears overflowed.

Specific context 'touji' (valedictory speech).

投資には手を出さないと決めてたけど、将来の不安から勉強を始めた。

I had decided not to dabble in investing, but out of anxiety for the future, I started studying it.

Idiom 'te wo dasanai' (not to get involved/dabble).

タバコはきっぱりやめると決めてたけど、ストレスが溜まるとつい手が伸びる。

I had decided to quit smoking once and for all, but when stress builds up, I reflexively reach for one.

Adverb 'kippari' (flatly/once and for all).

SNSはやめると決めてたけど、情報収集には便利だから結局続けている。

I had decided to quit social media, but since it's convenient for gathering information, I'm continuing after all.

Reason: 'jouhou shuushuu' (info gathering).

誰にも頼らないと決めてたけど、限界を感じて助けを求めた。

I had decided not to rely on anyone, but feeling my limits, I asked for help.

Noun 'genkai' (limit).

沈黙を守ると決めてたけど、真実を歪められるのは耐えがたかった。

I had decided to remain silent, but having the truth distorted was unbearable.

Literary expression 'chinmoku wo mamoru' and 'taegataki'.

伝統を守り抜くと決めてたけど、時代の波には逆らえなかった。

I had decided to protect the tradition to the end, but I couldn't go against the tide of the times.

Compound verb 'mamori-nuku' and metaphor 'jidai no nami'.

中立を貫くと決めてたけど、人道的な観点から沈黙を破ることにした。

I had decided to maintain neutrality, but from a humanitarian perspective, I decided to break my silence.

Formal verb 'tsuranuku' (to pierce/maintain throughout).

情に流されないと決めてたけど、彼の必死な訴えを無視することはできなかった。

I had decided not to be swayed by emotion, but I couldn't ignore his desperate plea.

Idiom 'jou ni nagasarenai' (not swayed by feelings).

過去は振り返らないと決めてたけど、ふとした瞬間に思い出が蘇る。

I had decided not to look back at the past, but in an unexpected moment, memories come flooding back.

Expression 'futo shita shunkan' (an unexpected moment).

妥協はしないと決めてたけど、プロジェクトを成功させるために一歩引いた。

I had decided not to compromise, but I took a step back to make the project a success.

Idiom 'ippo hiku' (to take a step back/concede).

孤独を愛すると決めてたけど、やはり人との繋がりを求めてしまうのが人間だ。

I had decided to love solitude, but it is human nature to seek connection with others after all.

Philosophical tone.

権力には屈しないと決めてたけど、家族を守るためには従わざるを得なかった。

I had decided not to yield to power, but to protect my family, I had no choice but to obey.

Grammar 'zaru wo enakatta' (had no choice but to).

虚飾を排し、清貧に生きると決めてたけど、世俗の欲望を完全に断ち切るのは至難の業だ。

I had decided to reject ostentation and live in honorable poverty, but completely severing worldly desires is a Herculean task.

High-level kanji: 'kyoshoku' (ostentation), 'seihin' (honorable poverty).

運命に従順であると決めてたけど、心の奥底で抗いたいという衝動が燻っている。

I had decided to be submissive to fate, but deep in my heart, the impulse to resist is smoldering.

Metaphorical use of 'kusuburu' (to smolder).

論理こそが真理だと決めてたけど、言語化できない直感の重要性に気づかされた。

I had decided that logic alone was truth, but I was made to realize the importance of intuition that cannot be verbalized.

Abstract nouns 'ronri' (logic) and 'chokkan' (intuition).

不干渉を貫くと決めてたけど、目の前の不正を看過することは私の美学が許さなかった。

I had decided to maintain non-interference, but my aesthetics would not allow me to overlook the injustice before my eyes.

Formal term 'kanka' (overlook/tolerate).

自己完結した世界で完結すると決めてたけど、他者という鏡なしには自己を定義し得ないことに絶望した。

I had decided to be complete within a self-contained world, but I despaired at the fact that one cannot define oneself without the mirror of others.

Complex philosophical structure.

一切の執着を捨てると決めてたけど、最期の瞬間に脳裏をよぎったのは、かつて愛した人の面影だった。

I had decided to cast away all attachments, but what crossed my mind at the final moment was the face of the person I once loved.

Buddhist concept 'shuuchaku' (attachment).

冷徹なリアリストとして生きると決めてたけど、子供の無垢な瞳を前にして、理想主義的な情熱が再燃した。

I had decided to live as a cold-headed realist, but before the innocent eyes of a child, my idealistic passion was reignited.

Contrast between 'reitetsu' (cold-headed) and 'risoushugi' (idealism).

永遠の静寂を享受すると決めてたけど、生の喧騒が奏でる不協和音にさえ、愛おしさを感じてしまった。

I had decided to enjoy eternal silence, but I ended up feeling affection even for the dissonance played by the bustle of life.

Highly poetic 'kensou' (bustle) and 'fukyouwaon' (dissonance).

Common Collocations

絶対に〜すると決めてたけど

二度と〜しないと決めてたけど

今日こそは〜すると決めてたけど

自分の中で〜すると決めてたけど

一生〜しないと決めてたけど

黙っていようと決めてたけど

買わないと決めてたけど

辞めようと決めてたけど

行かないと決めてたけど

自炊すると決めてたけど

Common Phrases

そう決めてたけど

— I had decided so, but...

そう決めてたけど、やっぱり気が変わった。

やめようと決めてたけど

— I had decided to quit, but...

タバコをやめようと決めてたけど、難しい。

言わないと決めてたけど

— I had decided not to say it, but...

言わないと決めてたけど、我慢できなかった。

頑張ろうと決めてたけど

— I had decided to do my best, but...

頑張ろうと決めてたけど、挫折してしまった。

一人で行くと決めてたけど

— I had decided to go alone, but...

一人で行くと決めてたけど、寂しくなった。

使わないと決めてたけど

— I had decided not to use it, but...

貯金は使わないと決めてたけど、急用ができた。

見ないと決めてたけど

— I had decided not to look/watch, but...

ネタバレは見ないと決めてたけど、見てしまった。

待つと決めてたけど

— I had decided to wait, but...

1時間待つと決めてたけど、30分で諦めた。

変えないと決めてたけど

— I had decided not to change it, but...

設定は変えないと決めてたけど、不便だった。

信じないと決めてたけど

— I had decided not to believe, but...

占いは信じないと決めてたけど、当たっていて驚いた。

Often Confused With

と決めてたけど vs 決めたけど (Kimeta kedo)

Refers to a single moment of decision, not a sustained state of mind.

と決めてたけど vs つもりだったけど (Tsumori datta kedo)

Softer intention; 'kimete ta' is a firmer resolution.

と決めてたけど vs はずだったけど (Hazu datta kedo)

Expectation based on external factors, not personal will.

Idioms & Expressions

"心に決めてたけど"

— Had decided in one's heart, but...

彼を支えると心に決めてたけど、もう限界だ。

Emotional

"固く決めてたけど"

— Had firmly decided, but...

固く決めてたけど、彼の熱意に負けた。

Strong

"密かに決めてたけど"

— Had secretly decided, but...

密かに転職すると決めてたけど、昇進が決まった。

Private

"不退転の決意で決めてたけど"

— Had decided with unshakeable determination, but...

不退転の決意で決めてたけど、状況が変わりすぎた。

Formal/Dramatic

"固く心に誓って決めてたけど"

— Had firmly sworn in one's heart and decided, but...

固く心に誓って決めてたけど、誘惑には勝てなかった。

Literary

"腹をくくって決めてたけど"

— Had braced oneself and decided, but...

腹をくくって決めてたけど、いざとなると怖い。

Idiomatic

"意を決して決めてたけど"

— Had screwed up one's courage and decided, but...

意を決して決めてたけど、タイミングを逃した。

Formal

"自分に言い聞かせて決めてたけど"

— Had told oneself and decided, but...

自分に言い聞かせて決めてたけど、本音は違った。

Psychological

"鉄の意志で決めてたけど"

— Had decided with an iron will, but...

鉄の意志で決めてたけど、美味しい匂いには勝てない。

Metaphorical

"背水の陣で決めてたけど"

— Had decided as a last stand, but...

背水の陣で決めてたけど、助け舟が出た。

Historical Idiom

Easily Confused

と決めてたけど vs 決まったけど

Sounds similar to 'kimete ta'.

Means 'it was decided (by others)' rather than 'I decided'.

出張が決まったけど、行きたくない。

と決めてたけど vs 決心したけど

Both mean 'decided'.

'Kesshin' is much more formal and used for major life changes.

留学を決心したけど、親に反対された。

と決めてたけど vs 思ってたけど

Both express past thoughts.

'Omotte ta' is just a thought; 'kimete ta' is a decision.

いいなと思ってたけど、買わなかった。

と決めてたけど vs 予定してたけど

Both involve plans.

'Yotei' is a schedule; 'kimete ta' is a personal choice.

10時に予定してたけど、遅れた。

と決めてたけど vs しようとしたけど

Both involve unfulfilled actions.

'Shiyou to shita' means you actually started to do it but failed.

起きようとしたけど、また寝た。

Sentence Patterns

[Verb Dictionary] + と決めてたけど、[Verb Past Negative]。

行くと決めてたけど、行きませんでした。

[Verb Negative Plain] + と決めてたけど、[Verb Past]。

食べないと決めてたけど、食べちゃった。

[Noun] + にしようと決めてたけど、[Noun] + にした。

カレーにしようと決めてたけど、ラーメンにした。

絶対に + [Verb] + と決めてたけど、[Reason] + で無理だった。

絶対に走ると決めてたけど、雨で無理だった。

二度と + [Verb Negative] + と決めてたけど、[Result]。

二度と連絡しないと決めてたけど、返信してしまった。

[Verb] + と心に決めていたが、[Circumstance]。

独身を貫くと心に決めていたが、彼に出会った。

[Verb] + と決めていたものの、[Contrast]。

沈黙を守ると決めていたものの、真実を話した。

[Philosophical Statement] + と決めていたが、[Realization]。

孤独を愛すると決めていたが、繋がりの大切さを知った。

Word Family

Nouns

決意 (Ketsui - Resolution)

決定 (Kettei - Decision)

決着 (Ketchaku - Conclusion)

Verbs

決める (Kimeru - To decide)

決まる (Kimaru - To be decided)

決心する (Kesshin suru - To make up one's mind)

Adjectives

決定的 (Ketteiteki - Decisive)

断固とした (Danko to shita - Firm/Resolute)

つもり (Tsumori - Intention)

予定 (Yotei - Plan)

はず (Hazu - Expectation)

けど (Kedo - But)

のに (Noni - Despite/Even though)

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in daily conversation and personal writing.

Common Mistakes

行くと決めたけど → 行くと決めてたけど
Use 'kimete ta' to show you held the decision for a while. 'Kimeta' sounds too sudden.
行くを決めてたけど → 行くと決めてたけど
The particle 'to' is required to quote the content of the decision.
行ったと決めてたけど → 行くと決めてたけど
The verb before 'to' should be dictionary form, as it's a decision about a future action.
行くに決めてたけど → 行くと決めてたけど
Don't confuse 'to kimeru' (decide to do) with 'ni kimeru' (decide on a noun).
行くと決めてたけど、行きました。 → 行くと決めてたけど、行けませんでした。
'Kedo' implies a contradiction. If you actually did it, don't use 'kedo'.

Tips

Watch the Tense

The verb inside the 'to' quote is present/future, but the 'kimeru' is past continuous. This shows the decision was for a future action.

Use the Contraction

In 90% of conversations, people say 'kimete ta' rather than 'kimete ita'. Use the contraction to sound natural.

Firmness Matters

Only use 'kimete ta' if you actually made a firm choice. If it was just a vague idea, use 'omotte ta' (was thinking).

Softening Excuses

Use this phrase when you have to break a plan. It shows you didn't forget; you just couldn't do it.

Formal Contexts

In essays, '〜と決めていたが' (without the contraction) is the standard way to express this.

The 'Kedo' Pivot

When you hear 'kedo', prepare for the 'twist' in the story. It's the most important part of the sentence.

Negative Decisions

Don't forget you can decide NOT to do things. 'Tabenai to kimete ta' is a very common way to talk about dieting.

Maintaining Face

This phrase is a 'face-saving' device. It proves you are a person who makes plans, even if life gets in the way.

Daily Reflection

At the end of the day, think of one thing you 'kimete ta kedo' didn't do. It's great grammar practice.

Adding Adverbs

Add 'zettai ni' (definitely) or 'kippari' (flatly) to show how strong your original decision was.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Kimeru' as 'Key-Mail'. You sent a 'Key Mail' (decision) to yourself, but ('kedo') you deleted it before acting on it.

Visual Association

Imagine a person standing at a fork in the road. They have a sign saying 'LEFT' in their hand (the decision they held), but they are actually walking down the 'RIGHT' path.

Word Web

Decision State of mind But Change Regret Excuse Intention Reality

Challenge

Try to think of three things you 'had decided' to do this morning but didn't. Say them out loud using '...to kimete ta kedo'.

Word Origin

The verb 'kimeru' comes from the Old Japanese 'kipu', meaning to cut or limit. This evolved into the sense of 'fixing' or 'deciding' something by cutting off other options. The '-te ita' form is the auxiliary verb 'iru' (to exist/be) attached to the te-form, indicating a state. 'Kedo' is a shortened form of 'keredomo', which originated from the classical 'keredo'.

Original meaning: To be in the state of having cut off other options (decided), but...

Japonic

Cultural Context

Generally safe to use, but using it too often as an excuse for being late or failing tasks can make you seem unreliable.

Equivalent to 'I was going to...' or 'I had my heart set on... but...'.

Commonly used in J-Pop lyrics to describe a change in feelings toward a lover. Frequently heard in 'Slice of Life' anime when characters fail at their New Year's resolutions. A staple phrase in Japanese 'Gomen-ne' (apology) culture.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Dieting/Health

食べないと決めてたけど
走ると決めてたけど
ジムに行くと決めてたけど
お酒を控えると決めてたけど

Shopping

買わないと決めてたけど
これにしようと決めてたけど
貯金すると決めてたけど
無駄遣いしないと決めてたけど

Work/Study

定時で帰ると決めてたけど
勉強すると決めてたけど
辞めると決めてたけど
報告すると決めてたけど

Relationships

会わないと決めてたけど
言わないと決めてたけど
信じると決めてたけど
謝らないと決めてたけど

Travel/Outings

行くと決めてたけど
家で過ごすと決めてたけど
予約すると決めてたけど
歩くと決めてたけど

Conversation Starters

"今日、本当は〜すると決めてたけど、結局できなかったんだよね。"

"ずっと買わないと決めてたけど、ついに買っちゃったものってある？"

"昔は〜しないと決めてたけど、今は考えが変わったことってある？"

"ダイエットすると決めてたけど、誘惑に負けたことある？"

"絶対に定時で帰ると決めてたけど、帰れなかった時どうする？"

Journal Prompts

今日、本当はやる予定で「と決めてたけど」できなかったことを書きましょう。

昔の自分が「絶対にしない」と決めてたけど、今はやっていることについて書いてください。

「買わないと決めてたけど」買ってしまったもの。その時の言い訳は何ですか？

誰かに「会わないと決めてたけど」会ってしまった時の気持ちを詳しく書いてください。

自分の意志が「と決めてたけど」変わってしまった経験について、その理由を分析しましょう。

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'Kimeta kedo' is a simple past decision ('I decided but...'). 'Kimete ta kedo' is past continuous ('I had been in the state of having decided but...'). The latter implies the decision was held for a while.

Yes, 'ga' is more formal. 'Kimete ita ga...' is common in writing or professional speech.

It is informal because of the contraction. For polite speech, use 'kimete imashita ga' or 'kimete ita desu ga'.

No, if someone else decided, use 'kimatte ita kedo' (it had been decided but...).

Always use the plain form (dictionary form or negative plain form). Never use the 'masu' form inside the quotation.

Usually, yes. The 'kedo' (but) strongly implies that the outcome was different from the decision.

Yes, use the pattern '[Noun] ni shiyou to kimete ta kedo'. Example: 'Sushi ni shiyou to kimete ta kedo...' (I had decided on sushi but...).

Use the formal version '〜することに決めておりましたが' to explain a change in your career path.

Use the negative plain form: '〜しないと決めてたけど'.

'Kimete ta' is a firm decision or vow; 'tsumori datta' is a general intention or plan.