Japanese grammar
What does ～とすれば mean? Japanese grammar N1
～とすれば means if indeed…; supposing that….
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | 普通形 + とすれば N + だ + とすれば |
| Romaji | tosureba |
| Meaning | if indeed…; supposing that… |
Forming it
| Clause | 事実 + だ + とすれば / 参加する + とすれば |
|---|
How to use it
Like 「とすると」 but emphasizes the CONDITIONAL nature more; usually discusses a possibility.
- 「～とすれば」 = if A were really true, then B. In the same family as 「とすると／としたら」; the 「ば」 form emphasizes CONDITION.
- Often used when considering a possibility: 「参加するとすれば、いつがいいですか」.
- The latter clause is an inference or a question about the consequence.
Examples
この報道が事実だとすれば、影響は大きい。
If this report is true, the impact will be significant.
参加するとすれば、いつごろがご都合よろしいですか。
If you were to join, when would be convenient?
Keep in mind
- Emphasizes the hypothetical condition.
- The following clause is an inference/question about the consequence.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong春になるとすれば、桜が咲く。
Whenever spring comes, cherry blossoms bloom.
Correct春になると、桜が咲く。
A natural law uses 「と」; 「とすれば」 is an assumption for discussing a consequence.
-
Wrong事実とすれば、驚いた。
If it's really true, that would be a surprising thing.
Correct事実だとすれば、驚くべきことだ。
A noun needs 「だ」 before 「とすれば」; the latter clause is an inference (not yet confirmed).
Exam tips
- 「とすれば」 = if A were really true, then (emphasizes condition); in the same family as 「とすると／としたら」.