ほとほと
Meanings
1
usually written using kana alone
Expresses strong exasperation or being at one's wit's end; often used with verbs like 困る, 呆れる, 嫌になる.
I'm utterly fed up with his irresponsibility.
I'm completely sick of doing the same thing every day.
Usage patterns
- ほとほと困るto be utterly at a loss / exasperated
I'm at my wit's end with his selfishness.
- ほとほと嫌になるto become utterly sick of something
I got utterly sick of hearing the same complaint over and over.
- ほとほと呆れるto be utterly dumbfounded/appalled
I was utterly appalled by his excuses.
- ほとほと疲れるto become utterly worn out (from repeated trouble)
I became utterly exhausted by the drawn-out negotiations.