「〜というのは／とは」- Explanation: "What something means is..."
Grammar Pattern
| Grammar Point | Connection | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 〜というのは／とは | Noun + 「というのは／とは」 | This grammar point is used to define or explain a concept or thing. It is pronounced as 「というのは」(to iu no wa) or 「とは」(to wa). Its main function is to clarify or define the meaning of the preceding noun or noun phrase, equivalent to "what is called... is..." in English. |
Basic Usage
〜というのは／とは is typically used to explain the specific meaning of a noun or noun phrase. For example:
小林 さんというのは、アメリカに行ってしまったあの人ですか。- Kobayashi-san to iu no wa, Amerika ni itte shimatta ano hito desu ka.
- Is Mr. Kobayashi the person who went to America?
Deep Dive
This grammar point is not only used for simple definitions but can also be used in more complex sentences for detailed explanations. Below are some usage scenarios and examples:
1. Defining a Term or Concept
就活 とは、就職活動 のことだ。- Shuukatsu to wa, shuushoku katsudou no koto da.
- "Shuukatsu" refers to job-hunting activities.
コンビニ というのは、コンビニエンスストア のことだ。- Konbini to iu no wa, konbiniensu sutoa no koto da.
- What is called a "convenience store" is a convenience store.
2. Explaining the Specific Content of Something
カレーライス とは、インド の料理 で、カレー のスープ にご飯 を入れたものだ。- Karee raisu to wa, Indo no ryouri de, karee no suupu ni gohan o ireta mono da.
- "Curry rice" is an Indian dish made by mixing curry soup with rice.
Common Mistakes
- Some may confuse 〜というのは／とは with 〜ということだ, but the former focuses more on defining nouns, while the latter tends to summarize information.
- When using 〜というのは／とは, pay attention to the logical relationship between the noun and its explanation to ensure the definition is accurate.
Real-Life Scenarios
〜というのは／とは is widely used in everyday conversations, academic discussions, and written expressions. It is suitable for academic papers, reports, news articles, and other contexts where precise definitions or explanations are needed.
Summary
〜というのは／とは is a highly practical Japanese grammar point primarily used to explain and define nouns or noun phrases. By understanding its basic usage and distinguishing it from similar grammar points, you can better apply this structure in real-life conversations.