Processing keyword: A。それでは、～B。(A. Soredewa,~B.)
Japanese Grammar Point: A。それでは、～B。(A. Soredewa,~B.)
1. Introduction
In this lesson, we'll explore the grammar pattern A。それでは、～B。 This structure is commonly used in Japanese to connect ideas or actions based on a previous statement. It helps in making conversations flow naturally and indicates a response or decision influenced by prior information.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
The phrase それでは (soredewa) translates to:
- "Well then,"
- "In that case,"
- "If so,"
- "So then," It serves as a conjunctive expression that links the preceding statement (A) with a subsequent action or response (B), reflecting a logical or situational connection.
Structure
Formation:
A。それでは、～B。
- A。: A statement or situation presented first.
- それでは、: A conjunction meaning "in that case" or "well then."
- ～B。: The resulting action, decision, or response based on A.
Formation Diagram
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| A。 | Initial statement or situation |
| それでは、 | Conjunctive phrase meaning "in that case" |
| ～B。 | Subsequent action or response influenced by A |
3. Comparative Analysis
Comparing with Similar Expressions
それでは vs. じゃあ
- それでは is more formal and polite.
- じゃあ is the casual, colloquial equivalent.
Example:
- Formal: それでは、始めましょう。
Well then, let's begin. - Casual: じゃあ、始めよう。
So, let's start.
それでは vs. だから
- それでは indicates a response or decision based on a situation.
- だから means "therefore" and indicates a reason or cause-effect relationship. Example:
- Using それでは:
A: 雨が降ってきたね。(Ame ga futte kita ne.)
It's starting to rain, isn't it?
B: それでは、帰りましょう。
Well then, let's go home. - Using だから:
雨が降ってきた。 だから、帰ります。
It started raining. Therefore, I'm going home.
4. Examples in Context
Example 1
A: 天気予報では明日は雪が降るそうです。
(Tenki yohō de wa ashita wa yuki ga furu sō desu.)
According to the weather forecast, it will snow tomorrow.
B: それでは、早めに出発しましょう。
(Soredewa, hayame ni shuppatsu shimashō.)
In that case, let's depart early.
Example 2
A: このレストランは満席だそうです。
(Kono resutoran wa manseki da sō desu.)
It seems this restaurant is fully booked.
B: それでは、別の店に行きましょうか。
(Soredewa, betsu no mise ni ikimashō ka.)
Well then, shall we go to another place?
Example 3
A: ペンが見つかりません。
(Pen ga mitsukarimasen.)
I can't find my pen.
B: それでは、私のを使ってください。
(Soredewa, watashi no o tsukatte kudasai.)
In that case, please use mine.
Example 4
A: 会議は延期になりました。
(Kaigi wa enki ni narimashita.)
The meeting has been postponed.
B: それでは、午後は自由ですね。
(Soredewa, gogo wa jiyū desu ne.)
Well then, we're free this afternoon, aren't we?
Example 5
A: プリンターが故障しています。
(Purintā ga koshō shite imasu.)
The printer is out of order.
B: それでは、修理を依頼しましょう。
(Soredewa, shūri o irai shimashō.)
In that case, let's request repairs.
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
- Politeness: Using それでは adds a level of politeness and formality to the conversation, aligning with Japanese cultural norms of respect.
- Business Settings: Often used in professional contexts, meetings, and formal communications.
Idiomatic Expressions
- それではお先に失礼します。
(Soredewa osaki ni shitsurei shimasu.)
Well then, excuse me for leaving before you.- Commonly used when leaving the office or a meeting before others.
- それではまた。
(Soredewa mata.)
Well then, see you again.- A polite way to say goodbye until next time.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
- Mistake: Omitting それでは when a response or action is directly influenced by the previous statement, making the conversation sound abrupt.
- Correction: Include それでは to smoothly transition between related statements.
Learning Strategies
- Practice Transitional Phrases: Incorporate それでは in dialogues to get comfortable with its usage.
- Listen and Repeat: Pay attention to how native speakers use それでは in conversations, dramas, or podcasts.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- それでは is a polite conjunctive phrase meaning "well then" or "in that case."
- Used to connect a preceding statement (A) with a subsequent action or decision (B).
- Enhances the flow and politeness of conversations.
Quick Recap Quiz
- What does それでは mean in this grammar pattern?
a) Because
b) Well then/In that case
c) However
Answer: b) Well then/In that case - Which is more formal: それでは or じゃあ?
Answer: それでは - Fill in the blank with the appropriate word.
映画が終わりました。______、食事に行きませんか。
Answer: それでは
Congratulations on learning the A。それでは、～B。 grammar pattern! Try using それでは in your next Japanese conversation to make your speech more natural and connected.