1.
rather than; or more precisely; more like
Used to correct or refine a previous statement, offering a more accurate or appropriate description. Indicates that the second description is closer to the truth than the first.
Usage
Follows a word, phrase, or clause to introduce a correction or more accurate restatement. The pattern is A というより B, meaning "B rather than A" or "more B than A." Very common in both spoken and written Japanese.
Forms
- というより (standard)
- というよりも (slightly stronger emphasis)
- というよりは (with contrastive nuance)
- っていうより (casual spoken form)
Common patterns
A というより B — where A is the initial description and B is the more accurate one. Both A and B can be nouns, adjectives, or clauses.