What it means
くせして expresses a strong contrast: the speaker criticizes someone or something for acting in a way that seems inconsistent with their status, condition, or previous behavior. It is similar to “despite” or “even though,” but it usually carries resentment, reproach, or disbelief. It follows a plain-form verb, an い-adjective, a な-adjective with な, or a noun with の. The following clause describes the behavior or situation being criticized.
Usage note
くせして is more confrontational and emotionally charged than a neutral contrast expression such as のに. It is common in speech and informal writing, and it can sound rude when directed at another person. The construction itself does not have a separate polite counterpart, so a polite surrounding clause may still contain くせして when appropriate.
Example sentences
新人のくせして、会議で部長の意見に反対するなんて失礼だ。
Despite being a newcomer, opposing the department manager's opinion in the meeting is rude.
高価な時計を持っているくせして、電車代をいつも借りたがる。
Despite owning an expensive watch, he always wants to borrow money for train fare.
彼はまだピアノを習い始めたばかりのくせして、発表会