Processing keyword: ～というのは (〜to iu no wa)
Japanese Grammar Point: ～というのは (〜to iu no wa)
1. Introduction
In this lesson, we'll explore the grammar point ～というのは (〜to iu no wa). This structure is commonly used in Japanese to define or explain the meaning of a word or phrase. It's a handy tool for clarifying terms, asking for definitions, or providing explanations, making your conversations more precise and meaningful.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
～というのは translates roughly to "the thing called ~ is..." or "what ~ means is...". It is used to introduce a term or concept and then provide its definition or explanation.
Structure
The basic structure is:
[Word or Phrase] + というのは + [Explanation] + です/だ/など。
- [Word or Phrase]: The term you want to define or explain.
- というのは: "As for what is called...", introduces the term.
- [Explanation]: The definition or explanation of the term.
- です/だ: Copula to conclude the sentence.
Formation Diagram
| Part | Function |
|---|---|
| [Word or Phrase] | Term to be defined |
| というのは | "As for what is called..." |
| [Explanation] | Definition or explanation |
| です/だ | Copula verb to end the statement |
3. Comparative Analysis
- ～とは (〜to wa): A more formal structure used primarily in written language for definitions.
- Example: 愛とは、他人を思いやる心である。
- ～っていうのは (〜tte iu no wa): An informal spoken variation.
- Example: クラウドっていうのは、オンラインのデータ保存のことだよ。
4. Examples in Context
Example 1: Defining a Term
Japanese: 友達というのは、困ったときに助けてくれる人のことです。 Romaji: Tomodachi to iu no wa, komatta toki ni tasukete kureru hito no koto desu. English: "A friend is someone who helps you when you're in trouble."
Example 2: Asking for a Definition
Japanese: 「おもてなし」というのは、どういう意味ですか？ Romaji: "Omotenashi" to iu no wa, dō iu imi desu ka? English: "What does 'omotenashi' mean?"
Example 3: Clarifying a Concept in Conversation (Informal)
Japanese: デジタルデトックスというのは、スマホとかパソコンを使わない時間を作ることだよ。 Romaji: Dejitaru detokkusu to iu no wa, sumaho toka pasokon o tsukawanai jikan o tsukuru koto dayo. English: "Digital detox is about setting time when you don't use your smartphone or computer."
Example 4: Explaining in a Formal Context
Japanese: 持続可能というのは、長期的に維持できるという意味です。 Romaji: Jizoku kanō to iu no wa, chōkiteki ni iji dekiru to iu imi desu. English: "'Sustainable' means that something can be maintained over the long term."
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
- Understanding Nuances: Japanese language includes many terms deeply rooted in culture, such as 和 (わ) meaning harmony. Using というのは helps explain these concepts to someone unfamiliar.
- Politeness Levels: While というのは is polite and neutral, using です/ます form keeps the explanation formal.
Idiomatic Expressions
- Proverbs and Sayings: When explaining proverbs, というのは is often used.
- Example:
- Japanese: 「塵も積もれば山となる」というのは、小さなことでも積み重ねれば大きな成果になるという意味です。
- English: "'Even dust amassed will make a mountain' means that even small things can lead to big results if accumulated."
- Example:
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
- Omitting の (no): A common mistake is leaving out の in というのは.
- Incorrect: 「絆」というは大切なことです。
- Correct: 「絆」というのは大切なことです。
- Using と思う (to omou) instead of というのは: Mixing up expressions that look similar.
- Incorrect: 愛と思う、相手を思いやることです。
- Correct: 愛というのは、相手を思いやることです。
Learning Strategies
- Mnemonic Device: Think of というのは as quotation marks in English, indicating you're about to define something.
- Practice: Try explaining new vocabulary using というのは to reinforce understanding.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ～というのは is used to define or explain a term or concept.
- It follows the structure: [Word or Phrase] + というのは + [Explanation] + です/だ.
- Useful in both formal and informal contexts for clarity.
Quick Recap Quiz
- How do you structure a sentence using ～というのは?
- Correct the mistake in the following sentence:
- 「侘び寂び」というは日本の美学の概念です。
- Provide an example of ～というのは used in a question.
Answers:
- [Word or Phrase] + というのは + [Explanation] + です/だ.
- Correct sentence:
- 「侘び寂び」というのは日本の美学の概念です。
- Example:
- Japanese: 「インクルージョン」というのは、どういう意味ですか？
- English: "What does 'inclusion' mean?"
By mastering ～というのは, you'll be better equipped to define terms and concepts, enhancing your communication in Japanese. Keep practicing by explaining new words you encounter!