Translation guide
A phrase used to refer to a type or kind of thing previously mentioned or implied, often to avoid repetition or to generalize. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various patterns depending on the grammatical role and level of formality.
To say 'that kind of X' or 'X like that', modifying a noun.
A common, neutral pattern meaning 'that kind of N' or 'N like that'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese. 'そういう' is a pre-noun adjectival.
I've never heard that sort of story.
I can't trust that sort of person.
Similar to そういう, but often carries a slightly more emotional or emphatic nuance, sometimes negative. Common in conversation.
Don't say that sort of thing.
Refers to something more distant from both speaker and listener, or something they both know about but is not immediately present. 'That sort of N (over there / we both know)'.
That sort of method is not good.
More formal and written. Often used in academic or business contexts.
That sort of problem should be dealt with immediately.
To say 'that sort of thing' without a following noun, often as a pronoun-like phrase.
The nominalized form of そういう, meaning 'that sort of thing'. Casual and common.
I don't like that sort of thing.
More abstract, often meaning 'that sort of matter/thing'. Can be used in both casual and formal contexts.
If it's that sort of thing, I'll help.
Casual, often with a dismissive or emotional tone. 'That sort of thing' (and I don't like it).
I don't know anything about that sort of thing.
To use 'that sort of' to soften a statement or indicate approximation, similar to 'kind of' or 'like that'.
そういう is neutral and refers to something just mentioned or implied. そんな often adds an emotional or evaluative nuance, frequently negative. ああいう refers to something more distant or shared knowledge, like 'that sort of thing we both know about'.
I want to read that sort of book. (neutral)
I can't bring myself to read that sort of book. (dismissive)
I don't read that sort of book anymore. (referring to a known type)
Do not attempt to translate 'that sort of' word-for-word as それの種類の or similar. These are unnatural in Japanese. Use the patterns above instead.