Grammar Info

N2 Lesson 7: 6/21

()(こと)That means, That is to say

Structure

Phrase + ということ + Phrase

Details

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About ということは

ということは is a phrase in Japanese that often appears in the middle of sentences, expressing that the previous statement is something that is about to be clarified. This can be translated as 'that means', or 'that is to say'. ということは based sentences will often finish with ということだ, although it is not limited to appearing this way.

The more literal translation is something similar 'that which is said to be (A), (B)'. In this way, it simply presents (A) as a thing that requires further explaining.

Additionally, ということは will appear at the beginning of sentences, when the speaker is confirming their understanding about something that has just been said. Often in the form of a question. In these cases, the translation is similar 'so you mean to say that (A)?'.

As can be seen from the breakdown of という, こと, and は, this statement just expresses that the 'thing' which is 'classified as' (A) is 'in general' understood to be (B).

Examples

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    (すえ)()ということは本当(ほんとう)(あま)えん(ぼう)なんじゃない?

    Is it not to say that the youngest child is really spoiled?

    ステージに()ということは(だれ)にでもできることではないと(おも)います。

    I do not think that standing on a stage means that anybody can do it.

    素直(すなお)であるということは(きみ)表情(ひょうじょう)からも()かります。

    You are docile. That is to say, I know this just from your facial expressions.

    ここに隙間(すきま)があるということは欠陥(けっかん)住宅(じゅうたく)(うたが)いがある。

    There is a crack here, that is to say I am suspicious of this residence being defective.

    (かれ)一人(ひとり)(たび)()ということは大人(おとな)になったということだ。

    He is going on a trip by himself. That is to say, he has become an adult.

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