ともなく

expression

somehow; without realizing; unconsciously

Used after a volitional or interrogative word to indicate an action done without clear intention or awareness. Often appears in patterns like どこからともなく (from somewhere or other) or 見るともなく見る (to look without really looking).

• どこからともなく音おん楽がくが聞きこえてきた。

  Music could be heard from somewhere or other.

• 見みるともなく窓まどの外そとを見みていた。

  I was looking out the window without really paying attention.