というのは

というのは
expression
the reason is; because; meaning that
grammatical
1. the reason is; that is because
used to introduce an explanation or reason for something previously stated
行(い)けません。というのは、予定(よてい)があるからです。
I can't go. The reason is that I have plans.
というのは、彼女(かのじょ)が来(く)るからだ。
That's because she's coming.
遅刻(ちこく)した。というのは、電車(でんしゃ)が遅(おく)れたのだ。
I was late. The reason is that the train was delayed.
2. what I mean is; that is to say
used to clarify or elaborate on a previous statement
「成功(せいこう)」というのは人(ひと)によって違(ちが)う。
'Success' means different things to different people.
つまり、というのは、時間(じかん)がないということです。
In other words, what I mean is that there's no time.
「和食(わしょく)」というのは日本(にほん)の伝統的(でんとうてき)な料理(りょうり)のことだ。
'Washoku' refers to traditional Japanese cuisine.

Explanatory expression

というのは serves two main functions: providing reasons/explanations, and defining or clarifying terms.

Pattern 1 - giving reasons

[Statement]. というのは、[reason]からだ。

  • Often used at the start of a sentence to explain the previous statement
  • Similar to なぜなら (because)

Pattern 2 - defining terms

「X」というのは Y のことだ/である

  • Used to explain what a word or phrase means
  • Common in explanations and lectures

Related words

Related Words

Related: なぜなら (because)
Related: というのも (the reason being)
Related: 要(よう)するに (in short)
general
Added 2026.1.28 13:46 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
08500/08760_toiunoha