Translation guide
Expressing agreement or confirmation in Japanese, with variations based on formality and context.
To confirm that what someone said is correct or to show you agree.
Polite and neutral way to say 'that's right'. Suitable for most situations.
A: Is this Mr. Tanaka's? B: Yes, that's right.
Plain form of そうです. Used in casual speech or writing.
A: Is tomorrow a day off? B: That's right.
More emphatic and formal, meaning 'exactly right' or 'just as you say'.
Very casual, often used when you suddenly remember or realize something is correct.
To show that you've understood what was said, often in response to instructions or explanations.
Expresses that you've understood and accepted the information. Similar to 'I see' or 'that makes sense'.
A: If you press this button, the machine starts. B: I see, that's right.
Polite way to say 'So that's what it is' or 'Now I get it'. Shows you've reached understanding.
To express that you've just remembered or realized something, often as a self-directed 'that's right!'.
そうです is a general agreement. その通りです is stronger, meaning 'exactly as you say', and is more formal. Use その通りです when you want to emphasize complete agreement.
A: I think this color is better. B: Exactly right.
English 'that's right!' is often used as a filler or to encourage a speaker. In Japanese, constant repetition of そうです can sound unnatural. Use nodding, はい, or ええ instead in conversation.
A: I think there's a problem with this plan. B: That's exactly right.
A: あの店、駅の近くだよね？ B: そうそう、そこ！
A: That shop is near the station, right? B: Yeah, that's right, that one!
A: In short, you don't have to come tomorrow. B: Oh, so that's what you mean.