Processing keyword: Noun はさておき (~ wa sateoki)

Japanese Grammar Point: Noun はさておき (~ wa sateoki)

1. Introduction

In Japanese, the grammar pattern 〜はさておき is used to set aside a topic in order to focus on another matter. It's similar to saying "setting aside ~" or "apart from ~" in English. This expression helps to shift the conversation smoothly by temporarily putting one subject on hold to address another.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

〜はさておき is used to:

• Temporarily leave aside a topic.
• Introduce a more pressing or relevant subject.
• Shift focus in a conversation or discussion.

Structure

The basic structure of this grammar point is:

[Topic Noun] + はさておき + [Main Subject/Discussion]

Formation Diagram

Part of Speech	Component
Noun	話（はなし）
Particle	は
Phrase	さておき
Rest of Sentence	本題に入りましょう
Example:

冗談はさておき、本題に入りましょう。

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3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• 〜はともかく（として）
  • Usage: Indicates that something is uncertain or irrelevant at the moment.
  • Example: 値段はともかく、デザインが気に入った。
  • Translation: Setting the price aside, I like the design.
• 〜は別として
  • Usage: Separates one thing from another, implying exclusion.
  • Example: この問題は別として、他はすべて解決した。
  • Translation: Putting this problem aside, we've solved everything else. Difference:
• 〜はさておき is used to temporarily set aside a topic to focus on another more important issue.
• 〜はともかく often implies that while something may be uncertain or not ideal, another point is more significant.
• 〜は別として explicitly excludes something from consideration.

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4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. 冗談はさておき、次の会議の準備をしましょう。 Translation: Setting jokes aside, let's prepare for the next meeting.
2. 結果はさておき、全力を尽くしたことが重要です。 Translation: Setting the results aside, it's important that we gave it our all.
3. 見た目はさておき、この料理は本当に美味しいです。 Translation: Apart from the appearance, this dish is really delicious.
4. 細かい問題はさておき、計画全体は順調です。 Translation: Putting aside minor issues, the overall plan is on track.
5. 値段はさておき、品質を重視したい。 Translation: Setting price aside, I want to prioritize quality.

Context Variations

• Formal Written:
  • この点はさておき、次の章に進みましょう。
  • Translation: Setting this point aside, let's proceed to the next chapter.
• Informal Spoken:
  • その話はさておき、今夜どこに行く？
  • Translation: Putting that aside, where are we going tonight?

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5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese communication, 〜はさておき allows speakers to navigate conversations politely. It helps in redirecting focus without dismissing the initial topic abruptly, which aligns with the cultural emphasis on harmony and indirectness.

Levels of Politeness

The phrase 〜はさておき is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Adjust the rest of the sentence to match the required politeness level.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 冗談はさておき
  • A common phrase meaning "joking aside" or "all jokes aside," used when transitioning from a light-hearted topic to a serious one.

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Incorrect Usage with Verbs or Adjectives
  • 誤り: 忙しいはさておき、手伝ってください。
  • 正しい: 忙しさはさておき、手伝ってください。 Tip: Ensure that 〜はさておき is attached to a noun.
• Confusion with Similar Phrases
  • Mixing up 〜はさておき with 〜はともかく Solution: Remember that 〜はさておき is for setting aside a topic to focus on another, while 〜はともかく highlights uncertainty or irrelevance.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device:
  • "さておき" sounds like "set aside," helping you remember its meaning.
• Practice with Common Nouns:
  • Use familiar nouns like 価格 (price), 問題 (problem), 冗談 (joke) to create your own sentences.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 〜はさておき is used to set aside a topic and focus on another.
• It is attached to nouns.
• Helps in smoothly transitioning topics in conversation.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank: 見た目____、この服はとても着心地がいい。
2. True or False: 〜はさておき can be used with verbs.
3. Translate to Japanese: "Putting the weather aside, how was your trip?"

Answers:

1. はさておき
2. False (It is used with nouns.)
3. 天気はさておき、旅行はいかがでしたか。

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