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: これは田中さんのですか？ B: はい、そうです。
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: 明日は休み？ B: そうだよ。
A: Is tomorrow a day off? B: That's right.
More emphatic and formal, meaning 'exactly right' or 'just as you say'.
A: この計画には問題があると思います。 B: その通りです。
A: I think there's a problem with this plan. B: That's exactly right.
Very casual, often used when you suddenly remember or realize something is correct.
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!
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: このボタンを押すと、機械が動きます。 B: なるほど。
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.
A: つまり、明日は来なくていいんです。 B: ああ、そういうことですか。
A: In short, you don't have to come tomorrow. B: Oh, so that's what you mean.
To express that you've just remembered or realized something, often as a self-directed 'that's right!'.
Used when you suddenly remember something. Often followed by the thing remembered.
そうだ、牛乳を買わなきゃ。
Oh, that's right, I have to buy milk.
With 'あっ', it emphasizes the sudden realization.
あっ、そうだ！今日は彼女の誕生日だ。
Oh, that's right! Today is her birthday.
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: この色の方がいいと思います。 B: その通りです。
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.