Japanese grammar
What does A、すなわち B mean? Japanese grammar N2
A、すなわち B means that is; to put it precisely (restating).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N2 |
|---|---|
| Structure | A、すなわち、B |
| Romaji | A,sunawachi B |
| Meaning | that is; to put it precisely (restating) |
Forming it
| Conversion | 一時間、すなわち六十分 |
|---|---|
| Definition | 日本の首都、すなわち東京 |
How to use it
Restates A more PRECISELY or using technical terminology. Academic written style.
- 「すなわち」 = that is to say. B is the PRECISE way of referring to A: 「日本の首都、すなわち東京は人口が多い」.
- Different from 「つまり」 (N3-101): 「つまり」 paraphrases for easier understanding and can be used in speech; 「すなわち」 restates as a precise definition/equivalence, and is only used in writing.
- Common in math, law, and academic writing: 「これは A、すなわち原因である」.
Examples
日本の首都、すなわち東京には多くの企業が集まっている。
Japan's capital, namely Tokyo, is home to many companies.
本試験の合格率は五割、すなわち二人に一人である。
The pass rate is 50 percent, that is, one in two people.
Keep in mind
- Used only in written language.
- A and B must be PRECISELY equivalent.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong疲れた。すなわち、少し休みたい。
I'm tired. That is, I want to rest a bit.
Correct疲れた。つまり、少し休みたいということだ。
「すなわち」 is used for precise equivalence, not for paraphrasing feelings.
-
Wrong（会話で）彼は先生だ、すなわち教える人だ。
He's a teacher, that is, someone who teaches.
Correct（会話で）彼は先生だ、つまり教える人だ。
In conversation, use 「つまり」.
Exam tips
- 「すなわち」 = that is to say (precise equivalence, written style); use 「つまり」 in speech.