1.
if so; in that case
Draws a logical conclusion from the previous statement.
"The trains aren't running." "In that case, we have no choice but to take the bus."
"The budget isn't enough." "If so, we'll need to think of another approach."
2.
then; and then
Indicates what happened next in a sequence of events.
そうすると connects two statements, drawing a logical conclusion or indicating what happens next. It always appears at the beginning of a sentence, responding to the previous context.
Common patterns
そう (so) + する (to do) + と (when/if) = "if one does so" / "when that happens"
Functions
1. Logical conclusion: "If so, then..." — responding to new information
2. Narrative sequence: "And then..." — describing what happened next
Similar words
- すると: then (more for narrative sequences, slightly more literary)
- それなら: if that's the case (emphasis on the condition, more conversational)
- だとすると: if that's true (more hypothetical, formal)
- ということは: that means (drawing a logical inference)
- じゃあ: well then (casual equivalent)
Register
Neutral to slightly formal. In casual conversation, じゃあ or それなら is more common.
Related Words
Synonym:
すると (then; thereupon (narrative))
Related:
それなら (if that's the case)
Related:
さもないと (otherwise; or else)
Compare:
じゃあ (well then)
Compare:
だとすると (if that is the case)