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Nihongo Online School > Tips for More Effective Studying > How to Say “It means …” in Japanese | ～は～という意味です (…wa …to iu imi desu) | JLPT N4 Grammar
How to Say “It means …” in Japanese | ～は～という意味です (…wa …to iu imi desu) | JLPT N4 Grammar
2025/11/08
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The expression 「～は～という意味です」 literally means “X means Y.”
It’s used when explaining the meaning of a word or phrase in Japanese.
You’ll hear it often in classes or conversations when someone asks, “What does that mean?”
It’s a key pattern for giving definitions and learning vocabulary naturally.
Contents
When and How It’s Used
Use 「～は～という意味です」 when you want to explain what something means.
The word 「意味（いみ, imi）」 means “meaning,” and 「という（to iu）」 connects the phrase being explained.
Altogether, it means “X has the meaning called Y.”
You can also ask for a meaning using:
～はどういう意味ですか。 ～wa dou iu imi desuka
“What does … mean?”
Then answer with:
～は～という意味です。 ～wa 〇〇 to iu imidesu
This Q&A form is very common in classrooms.
See How It’s Used in Conversation
This video will help you understand how ～は～という意味です is used in everyday Japanese conversations. Watch and repeat to improve your listening and speaking skills!
Sentence Pattern
～は～という意味です
(…wa …to iu imi desu)
Structure:
[Word / Phrase] + は + [Meaning] + という意味です
In casual speech, you may hear 「～っていう意味。（～te iu imi）」, a softer, everyday version.
Examples
①
「友達（ともだち）」は “friend” という意味です。
Tomodachi wa “friend” to iu imi desu.
→ “Tomodachi” means “friend.”
②
「努力（どりょく）」は “effort” という意味です。
Doryoku wa “effort” to iu imi desu.
→ “Doryoku” means “effort.”
③
A:「残業（ざんぎょう）」ってどういう意味ですか。
Zangyō tte dō iu imi desu ka?
→ What does “zangyō” mean?
B:「残業」は “overtime work” という意味です。
Zangyō wa “overtime work” to iu imi desu.
→ “Zangyō” means “overtime work.”
④
「いただきます」は “Let’s eat” や “Thank you for the meal” という意味です。
Itadakimasu wa “Let’s eat” ya “Thank you for the meal” to iu imi desu.
→ “Itadakimasu” means “Let’s eat” or “Thank you for the meal.”
In Summary
The pattern 「～は～という意味です」 helps you explain words clearly and politely.
It’s perfect for JLPT N4 level and everyday learning.
- To ask: 「～はどういう意味ですか。（～wa dou iu imi desuka）」
- To explain: 「～は～という意味です。（～wa ～to iu imi desu）」
Remember:
X wa Y to iu imi desu = X means Y.
By using this structure confidently, you can sound more natural, polite, and well-grounded in real Japanese communication.
Enhance your JLPT N4 with Nihongo Online School
Mastering the core grammar of JLPT N4 is just one step toward passing the exam. To build a solid foundation, you’ll also need to learn JLPT N4 Grammar List , and also Play List on Youtube for JLPT N4 helps you understand important grammar easily.
At Nihongo Online School, our programs combine vocabulary, grammar, and practical usage in a clear, structured way, designed to help you succeed on the JLPT N4. With our learning system giving you the confidence and preparation you need for the exam. Discover your favorite courses at Nihongo Online School.