What it means
ともすれば is an adverbial expression meaning that someone or something is liable to do something, especially when circumstances make an undesirable tendency easy to follow. It often introduces a tendency that occurs if one is not careful, and it commonly carries a critical or cautionary nuance. It is frequently used with expressions such as 優先してしまう, 忘れがちだ, and 偏りやすい. The expression is formal and common in analytical, written, and serious speech.
Usage note
ともすれば is not itself a polite or plain ending, so the following predicate determines the sentence register. Do not confuse it with ともすると, which has a very similar meaning and usage.
How to use it
ともすれば目先の利益を優先してしまいます。
One often ends up, unfortunately, prioritizing immediate gains.
ともすれば目先の利益を優先してしまう。
One often ends up, unfortunately, prioritizing immediate gains.
Example sentences
企業はともすれば長期的な顧客満足より目先の売上を優先してしまう。
Companies are apt to prioritize immediate sales over long-term customer satisfaction.
人はともすれば、効率を求めるあまり、休息の必要性を忘れがちである。
People are apt to become so focused on seeking efficiency that they tend to forget the necessity of rest.
研究者はともすれば専門分野の