ては (teha)

Meaning & usage

ては marks a repeated condition, meaning whenever or if that action happens, the same result follows again. It follows the te-form of a verb, as in 泣いては or 開けては, and often pairs two alternating actions like opening and closing. It describes a repeating pattern, not a reason, so avoid using it to mean because. With transitive verbs, include the object to keep the action clear.

Example sentences 3

1. この子こは泣ないては笑わらう。

   This child keeps crying and then laughing.

2. 父はドアを開けては閉める。

   My father keeps opening and closing the door.

3. 彼とは会ってはけんかする。

   Every time I meet him, we end up arguing.