〜ともあろう
Formation
Meaning
Used to express surprise, anger, or disappointment when someone or something that is highly regarded behaves in a manner that is unworthy of their position or status. It emphasizes the gap between expectations and reality.
Note
A dramatic and formal expression used to highlight the gap between a person's high status/reputation and their unworthy behavior. Often translated as 'of all people...'.
Examples
大学教授ともあろう人が、あんな初歩的なミスをするなんて信じられない。
I can't believe that someone who is a university professor would make such a basic mistake.
一国の首相ともあろう御方が、あのような不適切な発言をされるとは驚きだ。
It is surprising that someone who is the prime minister of a country would make such an inappropriate statement.
プロの料理人ともあろう者が、味付けを忘れるなんてあってはならないことだ。
It is unacceptable for someone who is a professional chef to forget the seasoning.
医者ともあろう人が、患者のプライバシーを漏らすなんて言語道断だ。
It is outrageous that someone who is a doctor would leak a patient's privacy.
警察官ともあろう者が、自ら法を破るなんて許されることではない。
It is not permissible for someone who is a police officer to break the law personally.
学者ともあろう者が、データの捏造を行うとは失望した。
I was disappointed that someone who is a scholar would engage in evidence fabrication.