Processing keyword: A それはそうと B。 (A Sore wa sou to B)
Japanese Grammar Point: A それはそうと B。 (A Sore wa sou to B)
1. Introduction
In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese grammar point それはそうと (sore wa sō to), which is commonly used in conversation to smoothly shift from one topic to another. Understanding this expression will help you navigate conversations more naturally in Japanese.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
それはそうと translates to "By the way," "Incidentally," or "Speaking of which" in English. It is used to introduce a new topic that is somewhat related but different from the current subject of conversation.
Usage
- Purpose: To smoothly transition to a new topic.
- Context: Commonly used in both casual and formal conversations.
- Position in Sentence: Typically placed at the beginning of the sentence introducing the new topic.
Structure
Here's how それはそうと fits into a sentence:
[Sentence A]。それはそうと、[Sentence B]。
- [Sentence A]: The initial topic or statement.
- それはそうと: "By the way" or "Incidentally."
- [Sentence B]: The new topic or question.
Formation Diagram
| Component | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Sentence A | Current topic | 明日はテストがあります。 |
| それはそうと | Topic shift connector | それはそうと |
| Sentence B | New topic | 来週の予定はどうしますか。 |
3. Comparative Analysis
Comparing with ところで (tokoro de)
Both それはそうと and ところで mean "by the way" and are used to change the topic. However:
- それはそうと often implies a slight connection between the two topics.
- ところで can introduce an entirely unrelated topic.
Expression Usage Nuance それはそうと Shifting to a related topic Slight connection to previous topic ところで Shifting to a new or unrelated topic No necessary connection
4. Examples in Context
Example 1: Casual Conversation
Japanese:
昨日のパーティーは楽しかったね。それはそうと、次の週末は空いてる？
Romaji:
Kinō no pātī wa tanoshikatta ne. Sore wa sō to, tsugi no shūmatsu wa aiteru?
Translation:
"Yesterday's party was fun, wasn't it? By the way, are you free next weekend?"
Example 2: Formal Context
Japanese:
新しいプロジェクトが始まりました。それはそうと、予算の件についてご相談できますか。
Romaji:
Atarashii purojekuto ga hajimarimashita. Sore wa sō to, yosan no ken ni tsuite go-sōdan dekimasu ka.
Translation:
"The new project has started. By the way, may I consult with you regarding the budget?"
Example 3: Written Communication
Japanese:
本書では環境問題について議論します。それはそうと、先日のセミナー資料をお送りしました。
Romaji:
Honsho de wa kankyō mondai ni tsuite giron shimasu. Sore wa sō to, senjitsu no seminā shiryō o okuri shimashita.
Translation:
"This book discusses environmental issues. Incidentally, I have sent you the seminar materials from the other day."
Example 4: Introducing a Related Topic
Japanese:
天気が悪くなりそうですね。それはそうと、傘を持ってきましたか。
Romaji:
Tenki ga waruku narisō desu ne. Sore wa sō to, kasa o motte kimashita ka.
Translation:
"It looks like the weather is going to get worse, doesn't it? By the way, did you bring an umbrella?"
5. Cultural Notes
Politeness Levels
- それはそうと is neutral and can be used in both polite and casual settings.
- Adjust the surrounding language to match the formality of the situation.
Natural Conversation Flow
- Using それはそうと helps in making conversations flow naturally.
- It shows attentiveness and the ability to connect different topics smoothly.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Common Mistake 1: Misusing with Unrelated Topics
- Mistake: Using それはそうと to introduce a completely unrelated topic.
- Correction: Use ところで (tokoro de) instead for unrelated topics.
Common Mistake 2: Confusing with それで
- Mistake: Mixing up それはそうと ("by the way") with それで ("and then"/"so").
- Tip: Remember that それはそうと changes the topic, while それで continues it.
Learning Strategy
- Mnemonic: Think of "So, that being said" for それはそうと, as it indicates a shift.
- Practice: Create sentences using それはそうと to transition between related topics.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- それはそうと is used to smoothly introduce a new, somewhat related topic.
- It is neutral in formality and widely used in daily conversations.
- Distinguish it from ところで (completely new topic) and それで (continuation).
Quick Recap Quiz
- What is the primary function of それはそうと in a conversation?
- How does それはそうと differ from ところで?
- Create a sentence using それはそうと to shift to a related topic.
Answers:
- To smoothly shift the conversation to a new, somewhat related topic.
- それはそうと introduces a new but related topic; ところで introduces a completely unrelated topic.
- (Example answer) 今日のミーティングは成功でした。それはそうと、次のプロジェクトについて話しましょう。
"Today's meeting was a success. By the way, let's talk about the next project."
Feel free to practice by incorporating それはそうと into your own sentences to become more comfortable with its usage!