# ということは: that means; in other words > Learn how to use ということは, a JLPT N2 Japanese grammar point meaning that means; in other words, with structure, nuance, examples, mistakes, and comparisons. JLPT level: N2 · Updated: 2026-05-06 · Canonical: https://hane-app.com/blog/n2-to-iu-koto-wa/ **ということは** means **that means; in other words**. It is a **JLPT N2** Japanese grammar pattern used to **draw a conclusion or restate what something implies**. This grammar point often appears in advanced reading, formal writing, notices, essays, and careful conversation. If you want to read Japanese with more nuance, **ということは** is a useful pattern to learn because it shows the speaker's logic, stance, or emphasis. ## What does ということは mean? Use **ということは** when you want to **draw a conclusion or restate what something implies**. Natural translations include: - that means; in other words - depending on context - in a way that matches the speaker's emphasis The best translation depends on the sentence. Focus first on what relationship the pattern creates between the ideas. ## How to form ということは Plain form + ということは Examples of the pattern: - 彼が来ないということは - 全員が賛成したということは - 電気が消えているということは In JLPT questions, pay close attention to the word immediately before the grammar point. Many wrong answers use a similar meaning but attach to the wrong form. ## When is ということは used? Use **ということは** in situations like: - reading formal explanations, announcements, or essays - making a point more precise than a basic grammar pattern would - connecting two ideas with a clear nuance Tone and register: - usually neutral to formal, depending on the expression - common in JLPT N2 reading passages, news, notices, and business-like writing ## ということは example sentences - 彼が来ないということは、予定が変わったのだろう。 — The fact that he isn't coming means the plan probably changed. - 全員が賛成したということは、この案で進められるということだ。 — Everyone agreed, so that means we can proceed with this proposal. - 電気が消えているということは、もう閉店したのかな。 — The lights are off, which means maybe the shop has already closed. - 試験まで一週間ということは、もう時間があまりない。 — It is one week until the exam, which means there isn't much time left. - 彼女が黙っているということは、何か考えがあるのかもしれない。 — The fact that she is silent may mean she has something in mind. After reading each sentence, ask what job **ということは** is doing. Is it adding, excluding, warning, emphasizing, or showing a condition? That habit makes the nuance easier to remember than a single English translation. ## Nuance of ということは The key nuance is **draw a conclusion or restate what something implies**. This matters because N2 grammar often overlaps with easier expressions. The advanced pattern usually adds formality, emphasis, restriction, or a stronger logical relationship. For example: - In formal writing, **ということは** often sounds more precise than a casual equivalent. - Compared with **つまり**, it has a different tone or scope even when the English translation looks similar. ## ということは vs つまり Both **ということは** and **つまり** can express related ideas, but they are different. **ということは**: - fits the N2 nuance explained above - often sounds more specific, formal, or emphatic **つまり**: - is usually broader, simpler, or used in a different register - may be better in casual conversation depending on the sentence Quick contrast examples: - 彼が来ないということは、予定が変わったのだろう。 - Try rewriting the sentence with **つまり** and notice whether the tone or meaning changes. ## Common mistakes with ということは Watch out for these mistakes: - Translating it too literally and missing the function in context - Confusing it with **つまり** just because the English translation overlaps - Using it in casual speech when a simpler pattern would sound more natural A helpful practice method is to write one sentence with **ということは**, then compare it with a related grammar point. Explain the difference in your own words. ## Is ということは on the JLPT? Yes. **ということは** is commonly taught as **JLPT N2** grammar. That means learners should be able to: - recognize it in reading - understand its nuance in context - use it in simple original sentences For test preparation, study the grammar point in full sentences. JLPT questions usually test context, not dictionary translation alone. ## Practice questions for ということは Try making your own sentences with these prompts: - Write one sentence that clearly needs **ということは**. - Write a second sentence with **つまり** and compare the nuance. - Find a notice, article, or dialogue where this kind of meaning would be natural. ## Learning path for ということは To learn **ということは** efficiently, follow a path that matches this pattern's real function. 1. First review the formation so the base structure feels natural. 2. Then compare **ということは** with **つまり** and the related lessons below. These recommendations are chosen from similar semantic or structural families. 3. Finally, write your own sentence where the context makes **ということは** necessary. ## Related grammar to review next - [n3 tsumari](/blog/n3-tsumari/) — review this next because it is close in meaning, form, or register - [n3 to iu koto da](/blog/n3-to-iu-koto-da/) — review this next because it is close in meaning, form, or register - [要するに](/blog/n2-you-suru-ni/) — review this next because it is close in meaning, form, or register ## Learn ということは with Hane If you want to review **ということは** together with the related patterns above, Hane helps you connect grammar, kanji, and vocabulary in short, focused sessions. Browse more lessons here: - [All grammar lessons](/blog/) - [JLPT N2 grammar lessons](/blog/n2/)