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)

Japanese Grammar Point: それはそうと (A sore wa sou to B)

1. Introduction

The phrase それはそうと (sore wa sou to) is a transitional phrase used in conversation and writing to change the topic or introduce a new topic related to what has just been discussed. It's similar to saying "by the way," "that aside," or "speaking of which" in English.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The phrase suggests that what precedes it is important, but the speaker wishes to shift focus to something else.
• Structure: The structure is as follows:
  • それはそうと (sore wa sou to) + sentence B

Formation Diagram

A + それはそうと (sore wa sou to) + B

Breakdown:

• それ (sore): That (referring to something previously mentioned)
• は (wa): Topic marker particle
• そう (sou): Like that, that way
• と (to): Quoting particle, often used in conversational phrases

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• ところで (tokorode): Also means "by the way," but is more neutral and doesn't imply a segue into something important or connected.
• さて (sate): Often used to change the topic in a more formal context, and it can imply a change of direction in conversation.

  Phrase	Meaning	Usage
  それはそうと	That aside	Informal, conversational
  ところで	By the way	Neutral, informal
  さて	Now, well	Formal transitions

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Informal:
   • 今日は楽しかったね。それはそうと、明日の計画はどうする？
   • (Kyou wa tanoshikatta ne. Sore wa sou to, ashita no keikaku wa dou suru?)
   • "Today was fun. By the way, what are we doing tomorrow?"
2. Formal:
   • 先日はお世話になりました。それはそうと、今後のプロジェクトについてお話ししませんか？
   • (Senjitsu wa osewa ni narimashita. Sore wa sou to, kongo no purojekuto ni tsuite ohanashi shimasen ka?)
   • "Thank you for your help the other day. That aside, shall we talk about the upcoming project?"
3. Spoken:
   • あの映画、面白かったね。それはそうと、次は何を見る？
   • (Ano eiga, omoshirokatta ne. Sore wa sou to, tsugi wa nani o miru?)
   • "That movie was interesting. Speaking of which, what should we watch next?"

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• The phrase is used to maintain the flow of conversation in a polite way, reflecting the Japanese value of group harmony and smooth communication.
• The use of それはそうと can soften the transition, making it easier to switch topics without being abrupt.

Idiomatic Expressions

• それで (sore de): That’s why, therefore (often used after a conclusion has been drawn).

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Overuse: Some learners may overuse this phrase and rely on it too often, which can distract from main points.
• Wrong Context: Using it in too formal a context can sound awkward or forced.

Learning Strategies

• Remember that それはそうと is best used for informal conversations; practice with native speakers to get a feel for natural usage.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• それはそうと is a useful conversational tool for changing topics.
• It implies a connection to what was previously discussed.
• It is predominantly used in informal settings.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does それはそうと mean in English?
2. In what context is それはそうと best used?
3. Compare それはそうと with ところで; how are they different? Answers:
4. By the way, that aside.
5. Informal conversations.
6. それはそうと implies a transition to an important point; ところで is more neutral.