Processing keyword: A。 では、～B。 (A. Dewa, ~B)

Japanese Grammar Point: A。 では、～B。 (A. Dewa, ~B)

1. Introduction

In Japanese, transitions between thoughts and actions are essential for smooth communication. The grammar structure A。では、～B。 is a useful conjunctive expression that helps speakers move from one statement to a conclusion, decision, or next action. It serves a similar function to phrases like "Well then," "In that case," or "So," in English.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning and Usage

The phrase では in this context is used as a conjunction to:

• Transition from a statement or situation (A) to a subsequent action or conclusion (B).
• Indicate a decision or next step based on the information provided in the preceding sentence.
• Express "Well then," "So," or "In that case," to smoothly connect ideas.

Structure

A。では、～B。

• A: A statement, observation, or context.
• では: Conjunctive expression meaning "Well then," "So," or "In that case."
• B: The resulting action, decision, or response.

Formation Diagram

Component	Role	Example
A	Initial statement	今日 (きょう) は雨 (あめ) ですね。 It's raining today.
では	Conjunctive expression ("Well then")	では
B	Subsequent action or conclusion	映画 (えいが) を見 (み) に行 (い) きましょう。 Let's go see a movie.

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3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Expressions

Expression	Meaning	Usage Context	Formality
では	Well then; In that case	Neutral/Formal	Formal
じゃ	Well then; So	Casual conversation	Informal
それでは	Then; In that case	Formal settings	More Formal
じゃあ	Well; So	Casual speech	Informal

• じゃ is the colloquial contraction of では and is used in informal contexts.
• それでは adds それ ("that") for emphasis and is slightly more formal.

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4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. Formal Spoken

   A: 会議 (かいぎ) は午後 (ごご) 3時 (さんじ) に終 (お) わります。
   The meeting will end at 3 PM.
   では、4時 (よじ) にお客様 (きゃくさま) とお会 (あ) いします。
   Well then, I'll meet the client at 4 PM.
   

2. Informal Conversation

   A: 今 (いま) からランチに行 (い) きます。
   I'm going to lunch now.
   では、私 (わたし) も一緒 (いっしょ) に行 (い) きます。
   Well then, I'll go with you.
   

3. Written Formal

   A: 詳細 (しょうさい) をメールで送 (おく) りました。
   I have sent the details via email.
   では、ご確認 (かくにん) ください。
   In that case, please check it.
   

4. Expressing a Decision

   A: 商品 (しょうひん) が売 (う) り切 (き) れていました。
   The product was sold out.
   では、別 (べつ) の店 (みせ) に行 (い) きましょう。
   Well then, let's go to another store.
   

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5. Cultural Notes

Levels of Politeness

• では is considered formal and is appropriate in business settings, formal conversations, and written communication.
• Using では shows respect and maintains a professional tone.

Idiomatic Expressions

• ではまた。
  • Meaning: "Well then, see you again."
  • Usage: A polite way to say goodbye, often used in formal contexts.

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Using Informal Expressions in Formal Settings
   • Incorrect: Using じゃ in a business meeting.
     • Example Mistake: じゃ、始 (はじ) めましょう。
   • Correct: Use では instead.
     • Correction: では、始 (はじ) めましょう。
2. *Confusing では with the Particle Combination で + は
   • では can also be a combination of the particle で (by, at) and は (topic marker).
     • Example: 東京 (とうきょう) では、多 (おお) くの人 (ひと) が電車 (でんしゃ) を使 (つか) います。
       • In Tokyo, many people use trains.
   • Tip: Pay attention to context to determine the correct meaning.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of では as a formal "Well then," where で sets the stage, and は highlights the transition.
• Practice: Use では in role-playing exercises that mimic formal situations, such as business meetings or formal emails.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• では is a formal conjunctive expression meaning "Well then," "So," or "In that case."
• It connects a preceding statement (A) to a subsequent action or conclusion (B).
• Use では in formal and professional contexts to maintain politeness.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank with the correct conjunctive expression: 部長 (ぶちょう) ：報告書 (ほうこくしょ) を明日 (あした) までに提出 (ていしゅつ) してください。 あなた：_______、準備 (じゅんび) いたします。 Answer: では、準備いたします。
2. True or False: It's appropriate to use じゃ in a formal business email. Answer: False
3. Choose the correct expression for a formal setting: A) じゃあ、始めましょう。 B) では、始めましょう。 Answer: B) では、始めましょう。

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Practice using では in your daily conversations to become more familiar with its formal tone and usage.

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