Translation and Meaning of: 所で - tokorode

The Japanese word 「所で」 (tokorode) is a common expression used to introduce a new topic or change the subject in a conversation. The etymology of this term combines two elements: 「所」 (tokoro), which can be translated as "place" or "point," and the particle 「で」 (de), which indicates a means or context. Together, these parts form a phrase that suggests a transition in the discourse or context of the conversation.

Originally, 「所」 (tokoro) was used to designate a physical location or a specific point in a narrative, but its use has evolved to a more abstract sense, also referring to moments or circumstances. When accompanied by the particle 「で」 (de), the expression transforms into a way to smoothly and effectively redirect the conversation.

It is interesting to note that this expression is very versatile, appearing frequently in everyday dialogues, literature, and even in media such as anime and movies. The expression 「ところで」 is particularly useful for creating natural pauses in conversations, allowing speakers to introduce topics without seeming abrupt. Furthermore, it can also be used as a conversation management mechanism, facilitating the introduction of information that may not be directly related to the current topic but is relevant to the overall goal of the dialogue.

Thus, when studying Japanese, understanding expressions like 「所で」 (tokorode) can help not only in linguistic fluency but also in grasping how Japanese people organize their thoughts and conversations. Taking advantage of these nuances in verbal exchanges can lead to more natural and engaging interactions. Therefore, the next time you find yourself in a conversation in Japanese, try using 「ところで」 to see how it can be a useful tool for maintaining fluency and control over the flow of dialogue.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• ところで - By the way
• それで - So, that's why
• そういえば - Speaking of that, by the way
• ちなみに - By the way, for that matter
• ところが - On the other hand, however
• しかも - Moreover, and on top of that
• それに - Furthermore, in addition
• それから - And then, afterwards
• そのうえ - Moreover, on top of that
• その後 - After that, next
• そのため - Because of this, for this reason
• そのために - For this purpose, for such an end
• そのかわり - In exchange for this, on the other hand
• その反面 - On the other hand, in contrast
• その結果 - As a result, consequence of this
• そのためには - For that (keeping this in mind)
• そのためにも - For this (also considering this)

所で

Romaji: tokorode
Kana: ところで
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: by the way; even if; no matter what

Meaning in English: by the way;even if;no matter what

Definition: Something about a place or location.

Example Sentences - (所で) tokorode

See below some example sentences:

私は教習所で運転を学んでいます。

Watashi wa kyōshūjo de unten o manande imasu

I'm learning to drive at driving school.

I'm studying driving at the driving school.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - topic particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• 教習所 (kyōshūjo) - Driving school
• で (de) - Particle that indicates the place where the action occurs
• 運転 (unten) - driving, drive
• を (wo) - direct object particle that indicates the target of the action
• 学んでいます (manandeimasu) - verb meaning "I'm learning"

私は停留所でバスを待っています。

Watashi wa teiryūjo de basu o matte imasu

I'm waiting for the bus at the bus stop.

I'm waiting for a bus at the stop.

• 私 (watashi) - signifies "I" in Japanese
• は (wa) - topic particle in Japanese, used to indicate the subject of the sentence
• 停留所 (teiryūjo) - means "bus stop" in Japanese
• で (de) - Location particle in Japanese language, used to indicate where something is happening.
• バス (basu) - It means "bus" in Japanese.
• を (wo) - partícula de objeto em japonês, usada para indicar o objeto direto da frase
• 待っています (matteimasu) - It means "I am waiting" in Japanese, with "matte" being the verb "to wait" and "imasu" a form to indicate the present continuous.