Processing keyword: A すなわち B。 (A sunawachi B)

Japanese Grammar Point: A すなわち B。 (A sunawachi B)

JLPT Grammar Lesson: A すなわち B (A sunawachi B)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the grammar point A すなわち B (A sunawachi B), a useful expression in Japanese that helps you clarify and define terms. Understanding this grammar point will enhance your ability to explain concepts and ideas more precisely in both formal and informal contexts.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

すなわち (sunawachi) translates to "that is to say," "in other words," or "namely" in English. It is used to restate or clarify something by providing another way of expressing the same idea.

Structure

The basic structure is straightforward:

A すなわち B

• A: A statement, term, or concept that needs clarification
• すなわち: "That is to say" / "In other words"
• B: Restatement or explanation of A

Formation Diagram

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

1. つまり (tsumari): Also means "in other words" or "that is to say," but is used to summarize or conclude statements.
   • Difference: すなわち is often used to redefine or explain A, whereas つまり is used to summarize the gist of previous statements.
2. 要するに (yōsuru ni): Means "in short" or "to sum up," used to summarize complex information.
   • Difference: 要するに emphasizes summarization, while すなわち emphasizes clarification or restatement.

4. Examples in Context

Example 1: Defining a Term (Formal/Written)

Japanese:

地球は第三惑星、すなわち太陽系で三番目の惑星です。 Romaji: Chikyū wa dai-san wakusei, sunawachi taiyōkei de san-banme no wakusei desu. English Translation: The Earth is the third planet, that is to say, the third planet in the solar system.

Example 2: Explaining a Concept (Formal/Spoken)

Japanese:

水はH₂O、すなわち2つの水素原子と1つの酸素原子から成ります。 Romaji: Mizu wa eichi-tsū-ō, sunawachi futatsu no suiso genshi to hitotsu no sanso genshi kara narimasu. English Translation: Water is H₂O, in other words, it consists of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.

Example 3: Clarifying Information (Informal/Spoken)

Japanese:

彼は僕の親友、すなわち一番信頼できる人だ。 Romaji: Kare wa boku no shinyū, sunawachi ichiban shinrai dekiru hito da. English Translation: He is my best friend, that is to say, the person I trust the most.

Example 4: Giving Examples (Formal/Written)

Japanese:

この都市には多くの観光名所がある。すなわち、古いお寺や美術館などだ。 Romaji: Kono toshi ni wa ōku no kankō meisho ga aru. Sunawachi, furui otera ya bijutsukan nado da. English Translation: This city has many tourist attractions. Namely, old temples and museums.

5. Cultural Notes

Levels of Politeness

• すなわち is a neutral term and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
• It is commonly found in written language, academic texts, and formal speeches.

Idiomatic Expressions

• While すなわち itself is not idiomatic, it is a staple in logical and explanatory discourse in Japanese.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Using すなわち Incorrectly with Contradictory Statements
   • Incorrect: 今日は雨だ。すなわち、傘は要らない。
   • Corrected: 今日は雨だ。だから、傘が必要だ。 Explanation: すなわち should connect statements that are equivalent, not cause and effect.
2. Confusing すなわち with つまり
   • While similar, mistaking the two can lead to slight nuances in meaning.

Tips

• Remember: Use すなわち when you are redefining or restating A as B.
• Think of すなわち as the equal sign (=) in mathematics: A = B.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• すなわち (sunawachi) means "that is to say" or "in other words."
• It is used to clarify or restate a previous term or statement.
• Commonly used in formal writing and speeches but acceptable in informal contexts.
• Different from つまり, which is used to summarize rather than redefine.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Translate and fill in the blank: 日本の首都、すなわち ________ は大都市です。
2. True or False: すなわち can be used to show cause and effect between two statements.
3. Choose the correct connector: 彼は医者だ。_______、健康の専門家だ。 a) すなわち
   b) しかし
   c) それで

Answers:

1. 東京 (Tōkyō)
   • 日本の首都、すなわち東京は大都市です。
   • Translation: "Japan's capital, that is to say, Tokyo, is a big city."
2. False
   • すなわち is used for restatement, not cause and effect.
3. a) すなわち
   • 彼は医者だ。すなわち、健康の専門家だ.
   • Translation: "He is a doctor. In other words, a health specialist."

By mastering すなわち, you'll be able to express definitions and clarifications more effectively, enhancing your Japanese communication skills.