という意味だIt means; that means
という意味だ directly explains the meaning of a word, sign, statement, action, or situation. The part before it gives the meaning or interpretation.
How the sentence is organized
First identify the item being explained, usually earlier in the sentence or as a topic with は. Then put its actual meaning before という意味だ. A verb or adjective in that explanation normally uses its plain form.
Defining a word
「欠席」は、学校や会議などに行かないという意味です。
“Absence” means not attending school, a meeting, or a similar event.
AnalyzeThe quoted word is the item being defined; the clause before the target gives its meaning.
Interpreting a situation
The construction is not limited to dictionary definitions. It can also explain what a sign, action, statement, or situation implies in the current context.
入口の赤いランプは、今は中に入れないという意味です。
The red light at the entrance means that people cannot enter right now.
AnalyzeHere the speaker is interpreting what the light indicates, rather than defining a word.
Asking what something means
Choosing among related definition patterns
という意味だ directly states the meaning. というのは first raises an item as the topic to be explained, while とは introduces a compact definition and is especially common in formal explanation. The naming pattern noun + という + noun only tells you what something is called; it does not itself explain what that name means.
More examples
「徐行」は、速度を落として進むという意味です。
“Proceed slowly” means to reduce your speed and continue.
Analyzeこのベルは、授業が始まるという意味です。
This bell means that class is starting.
Analyze先生が何も言わずにうなずいたのは、続けていいという意味だった。
The teacher's silent nod meant that it was okay to continue.
Analyzeつまり、明日の集まりは中止だという意味ですか。
So, does that mean tomorrow's gathering is canceled?
Analyzeこの文で「軽い」は、重くないという意味です。
In this sentence, “light” means “not heavy.”
Analyzeドアに青い札が出ているのは、今は入ってもいいという意味です。
The blue sign on the door means that it is okay to enter now.
Analyze