〜つまり
in other words
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜つまり” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜つまり」 means "in other words". Structure: つまり + Sentence. This is a JLPT N3 pattern — the examples below slot different everyday and workplace words into the same structure so you can see how it behaves. Learn the structure, then swap in your own words.
When to use it
Read the example aloud, then replace one detail with something from your own life.
Tone: Neutral
A general pattern; let the sentence ending and situation set the politeness level.
Use
Hear it in real life
Everyday life
Example 1つまり、成功が原因だったのです。
つまり、せいこう が げんいん だった の です。
tsumari, seikou ga gen'in datta no desu.
In other words, the success was the cause.
Everyday life
Example 2つまり、安心が原因だったのです。
つまり、あんしん が げんいん だった の です。
tsumari, anshin ga gen'in datta no desu.
In other words, the relief was the cause.
Everyday life
Example 3つまり、原因が原因だったのです。
つまり、げんいん が げんいん だった の です。
tsumari, gen'in ga gen'in datta no desu.
In other words, the cause was the cause.
Everyday life
Example 4つまり、能力が原因だったのです。
つまり、のうりょく が げんいん だった の です。
tsumari, nouryoku ga gen'in datta no desu.
In other words, the ability was the cause.
Everyday life
Example 5つまり、態度が原因だったのです。
つまり、たいど が げんいん だった の です。
tsumari, taido ga gen'in datta no desu.
In other words, the attitude was the cause.
Make it yours
Choose one example. Replace one person, place, object, or time with a detail from your life, then say the new sentence aloud.
Recall
Test your memory
Recall practice
Can you say it?
1 of 5
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
In other words, the success was the cause.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜つまり.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.