その通り
sono tōri[so̞no̞ to̞ːɾʲi]
The English phrase "so true" can be expressed in Japanese as その通り (sono tōri).
その通り is an expression used to show complete agreement with something someone has said. It is often used as a standalone exclamation to express strong agreement, such as saying "Exactly!"
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of その (that) and 通り (way/manner), literally meaning "in that way" or "exactly as stated".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Using その通り alone is informal and should be used with friends, family or people of lower social status. Adding です to the end creates その通りです, which is polite and suitable for use with superiors or in formal settings. For even more emphasis and politeness, you can use まさにその通りです to mean "Exactly, that's just right" or 本当にそうですね to mean "That is really true, isn't it?" in a polite way.
How do you pronounce it?
sono tōri
Did you know?
- The word 通り (tōri) in this phrase shares its kanji with the word for 'street' or 'avenue'. In a different context, it refers to a physical thoroughfare.
- In Japanese communication, agreeing with その通り is often accompanied by a rhythmic, repeated nodding of the head. This physical gesture is much more frequent and pronounced than the single nod typical in English.
- While その通り is a strong agreement, using it too frequently in a professional setting can actually come across as blunt or dismissive, almost like saying 'You're right, now move on'.
Examples in context
- その通りです。Sono toori desu.That is exactly right.
Example conversation
Yui and Yota are talking about how difficult their homework is.
- 結衣 Yui今回の宿題は本当に難しいね。Konkai no shukudai wa hontō ni muzukashii ne.This time's homework is really difficult, isn't it?
- 陽太 Yota本当にその通りだね。Hontō ni sono tōri da ne.That's so true.
- 結衣 Yui先生に相談してみようか。Sensei ni sōdan shite miyō ka.Shall we try talking to the teacher?
- 陽太 Yotaいい考えだね。Ii kangae da ne.That's a good idea.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry その通り, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
