〜ともなく
Formation
Meaning
Indicates that an action is being performed unconsciously, vaguely, or without a clear purpose or strong intention. It often precedes verbs of perception like 'see', 'hear', or 'think'.
Note
A literary expression often used with verbs of perception. It conveys a sense of aimlessness or unconscious repetition.
Examples
テレビを見るともなく眺めていたら、ニュースで友人の名前が出てきて驚いた。
While I was gazing at the TV without really watching it, I was surprised to see my friend's name appear in the news.
先生の話を聞くともなしに聞いていたら、突然指名されて焦ってしまった。
While I was listening to the teacher's talk without really paying attention, I was suddenly called on and got flustered.
窓の外を眺めるともなく眺めていたら、珍しい鳥が飛んできた。
While I was gazing out the window without any particular purpose, a rare bird flew in.
将来のことを考えるともなしに考えていたら、少し不安になってきた。
While I was vaguely thinking about the future, I started to feel a bit anxious.
隣の人の会話を聞くともなく耳に入ってきたのだが、どうやら大きなプロジェクトが始まるらしい。
I happened to overhear the conversation of the person next to me, and it seems a large project is about to start.
昔の写真を眺めるともなしに眺めているうちに、当時の記憶が鮮明に蘇ってきた。
As I was aimlessly looking through old photos, memories of that time came back vividly.