Processing keyword: ～とのことだ (〜to no koto da)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～とのことだ (〜to no koto da)

Grammar Point: ～とのことだ (〜to no koto da)

1. Introduction

The grammar point "～とのことだ" is used in Japanese to convey reported speech or to communicate information obtained from another source. This structure is often employed to relay what someone else has said, whether it be news, information, or opinions.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: "～とのことだ" translates to "it is said that ~" or "according to ~". It indicates that the speaker is sharing information that was not directly stated by them but rather received from someone else or obtained from some other source.

Structure:

• The structure typically follows this pattern: [Noun/Verb (plain form)] + とのことだ
• Noun Example:
  • 彼は来ないとのことだ。
  • (Kare wa konai to no koto da.)
  • "It is said that he will not come."
• Verb Example:
  • 先生が明日テストがあるとのことだ。
  • (Sensei ga ashita tesuto ga aru to no koto da.)
  • "According to the teacher, there is a test tomorrow."

Formation Diagram:

+------------------------------+
|        Source of Info        |
|   (Someone or Something)     |
+--------------+---------------+
               |
               v
    +------------------------+
    |  [Noun/Verb (plain)]   |
    +------------------------+
               |
               v
   +--------------------------+
   |       とのことだ        |
   +--------------------------+

3. Comparative Analysis

• Similar Grammar Points:
  • ～と言う (〜to iu): This also conveys reported speech but is generally used when quoting someone directly.
    • Example: 彼は来ないと言っている。
    • (Kare wa konai to itte iru.)
    • "He says he won't come."
  • ～らしい (〜rashii): This implies that something is apparently true based on what one has heard, but with less certainty than "とのことだ".
    • Example: 彼は来ないらしい。
    • (Kare wa konai rashii.)
    • "It seems that he won't come."

Key Differences:

• "とのことだ" is more formal and holds a stronger sense of reporting due to its structure.
• "と言う" may indicate a direct quote.
• "らしい" conveys hearsay with an implication of uncertainty.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Context:
   • 地震の影響で学校は休校とのことです。
   • (Jishin no eikyou de gakkou wa kyuukou to no koto desu.)
   • "It is said that the school is closed due to the earthquake."
2. Informal Context:
   • 友達が来ないとのことだよ。
   • (Tomodachi ga konai to no koto da yo.)
   • "I heard that my friend isn't coming."
3. Written Context:
   • 彼女が新しいプロジェクトを始めるとのことだ。
   • (Kanojo ga atarashii purojekuto o hajimeru to no koto da.)
   • "It has been reported that she will start a new project."
4. Spoken Context:
   • 明日雨が降るとのこと。
   • (Ashita ame ga furu to no koto.)
   • "I heard it will rain tomorrow."

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

The use of "とのことだ" reflects the Japanese communication style, which values indirectness and politeness. Using this expression shows respect for the source of the information and can imply that the speaker is simply relaying information rather than asserting authority.

Idiomatic Expressions

• To say "it’s common knowledge," one might use a structure like:
  • みんなが知っているとのことだ。
  • (Minna ga shitte iru to no koto da.)
  • "It is common knowledge."

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Overusing the Structure: learners might tend to use "とのことだ" too frequently, even in casual conversations where a simpler verb form would suffice.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that "こと" (koto) means "thing or matter," so think of "とのことだ" as a way to convey "the matter is that ~" or "the thing is that ~."

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• "～とのことだ" is used for relaying information received from another source.
• It is structured as [Noun/Verb (plain form)] + とのことだ.
• It implies a level of formality and respect towards the source of information.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does "とのことだ" mean in English?
2. How would you use it to report speech?
3. Compare "とのことだ" with "と言う". What is the key difference? By understanding and practicing "〜とのことだ," learners can enhance their Japanese communication skills by accurately conveying reported speech and information effectively.