Processing keyword: ～つまり (〜tsumari)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～つまり (〜tsumari)

Grammar Lesson: ～つまり (〜tsumari)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese conjunction 「つまり」 (tsumari). This grammar point is essential for expressing summaries, conclusions, or restatements in conversations and writing. Understanding how to use 「つまり」 will help you clarify your thoughts and ensure your listener understands your point.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

「つまり」 translates to "in other words," "that is to say," "in short," or "basically" in English. It is used to restate or summarize the previous information in a more concise or clearer way.

Structure

[Statement A]. つまり、[Statement B].

• Statement A: The initial information or explanation.
• つまり: The conjunction meaning "in other words."
• Statement B: The restated, summarized, or clarified information.

Formation Diagram

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• Differences:
  • 「つまり」 is versatile and used in both spoken and written language for summarizing or rephrasing.
  • 「すなわち」 is more formal and often used in written contexts to define or specify.
  • 「要するに」 emphasizes summarizing lengthy explanations into a concise statement.

4. Examples in Context

Example 1: Clarifying Information

Japanese:
彼は父の弟の息子です。つまり、私のいとこです。 Romaji:
Kare wa chichi no otōto no musuko desu. Tsumari, watashi no itoko desu. English Translation:
He is my father's younger brother's son. In other words, he's my cousin.

Example 2: Summarizing a Situation

Japanese:
雨も降っているし、電車も遅れている。つまり、今日は出かけないほうがいい。 Romaji:
Ame mo futte iru shi, densha mo okurete iru. Tsumari, kyō wa dekakenai hō ga ii. English Translation:
It's raining, and the trains are delayed. In short, it's better not to go out today.

Example 3: Restating for Clarity

Japanese:
この値段は税込みです。つまり、消費税を含んだ価格です。 Romaji:
Kono nedan wa zeikomi desu. Tsumari, shōhizei o fukunda kakaku desu. English Translation:
This price includes tax. That is to say, it's the price with consumption tax included.

Example 4: Explaining in Conversation (Informal)

Japanese:
彼、仕事を辞めたんだって。つまり、あのプロジェクトは中止かな。 Romaji:
Kare, shigoto o yametan datte. Tsumari, ano purojekuto wa chūshi kana. English Translation:
He quit his job, they say. So basically, that project might be canceled.

5. Cultural Notes

Politeness and Formality

• 「つまり」 is neutral in politeness and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
• It's commonly used in everyday conversation, news reports, and written materials.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 人生は旅だ。つまり、経験が大切だ。
  Life is a journey. In other words, experiences are important.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Misplacement of 「つまり」: Placing 「つまり」 incorrectly in a sentence can confuse the meaning.
   • Incorrect: つまり、彼は来ないと言った。 (Tsumari, kare wa konai to itta.)
   • Correct: 彼は来ないと言った。つまり、予定が変わった。 (Kare wa konai to itta. Tsumari, yotei ga kawatta.)
2. Overusing 「つまり」: Using 「つまり」 too frequently can make speech sound repetitive.

Tips

• Mnemonic Device: Think of 「つ」 as "to," and 「まり」 as "summary." So, 「つまり」 helps you "summarize" the previous statement.
• Practice: Try restating news headlines or articles using 「つまり」 to get comfortable with its usage.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 「つまり」 is used to summarize, restate, or clarify information.
• It means "in other words," "that is to say," or "basically."
• Versatile in both formal and informal contexts.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What is the primary function of 「つまり」 in a sentence?
2. Translate the following sentence using 「つまり」: 彼は日本で十年間働いていました。_______、日本語がとても上手です。
3. Which of the following is more formal than 「つまり」: 「要するに」 or 「すなわち」?

Answers:

1. To restate or summarize the previous information.
2. 彼は日本で十年間働いていました。つまり、日本語がとても上手です。
   (He worked in Japan for ten years. In other words, his Japanese is very good.)
3. 「すなわち」 is more formal than 「つまり」.

By mastering 「つまり」, you'll enhance your ability to convey clear and concise messages in Japanese. Keep practicing by summarizing conversations or texts using this grammar point!