つまり
tsumari
The phrase "this means" translates to Japanese as つまり (tsumari).
つまり is used to introduce a simplified explanation or a logical conclusion of what was just said. It acts as a way to say "in other words" or "that is to say," allowing a speaker to rephrase a complex or long explanation into a simpler, more direct statement.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is derived from the verb tsumaru (to be closed or concluded), and it literally implies a summary or a closing of points.
How do you pronounce it?
tsumari
Did you know?
- The verb tsumaru from which つまり is derived also means 'to be clogged' or 'stuffed', such as a nose during a cold.
- In Japanese comedy and manga, つまり is often used by characters who are trying to sound overly intellectual or analytical, sometimes as a running gag to oversimplify something obvious.
- If a speaker repeats つまり multiple times in a short period, it can sound like they are aggressively cornering the listener into agreeing with a specific conclusion.
Examples in context
- これは大切なことを意味します。This means something important.
- これが成功を意味します。This signifies success.
- これはあまりいいことを意味しないんだよ。This doesn't mean something good.
- 彼の言ったことはつまりそれだ。What he said means exactly that.
- つまり、彼は来ないということだ。In other words, it means he is not coming.
- つまり、今日は休みということですね。Tsumari, kyou wa yasumi to iu koto desu ne.So, this means today is a holiday, right?
- つまり、君がやりたいのはこれか？Tsumari, kimi ga yaritai no wa kore ka?In other words, is this what you want to do?
- つまり、もう遅すぎるということだ。Tsumari, mou ososugiru to iu koto da.This means it is already too late.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a complex schedule at a cafe.
- 結衣 Yui来週の会議は中止になったよ。Raishuu no kaigi wa chuushi ni natta yo.Next week's meeting has been cancelled.
- 大翔 Hirotoつまり、来週は暇になるってこと？Tsumari, raishuu wa hima ni naru tte koto?This means we'll be free next week?
- 結衣 Yuiそうだよ、大翔。予定は空いたよ。Sou da yo, Hiroto. Yotei wa aita yo.That's right, Hiroto. The schedule is open.
- 大翔 Hirotoよかった、結衣。やっと休める。Yokatta, Yui. Yatto yasumeru.Great, Yui. I can finally rest.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry つまり, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
