Translation guide
Expressions for referring to a type or category of thing, often pointing to something nearby or previously mentioned.
The speaker wants to talk about a category of things that is close in context, time, or space.
A common, neutral way to say 'this kind of' when referring to something just mentioned or shown. Used before nouns.
このような問題はよくあります。
This kind of problem happens often.
Very common in spoken Japanese. Slightly more casual than このような. Used before nouns.
こういう映画が好きです。
I like this kind of movie.
Casual and conversational. Often carries a nuance of 'like this' with emotional emphasis. Used before nouns.
こんな天気は嫌だ。
I hate this kind of weather.
Slightly more formal and often used in written language or presentations. Emphasizes 'such' or 'these kinds of'.
こうした努力が成功につながる。
This kind of effort leads to success.
The speaker wants to talk about a category of things that is close to the listener.
Neutral way to say 'that kind of' when referring to something near the listener or just mentioned by the listener.
そのようなことは聞いていません。
I haven't heard of that kind of thing.
Casual spoken equivalent of そのような. Very common in conversation.
そういう話は信じられない。
I can't believe that kind of story.
Casual and often emotional. Can express surprise, disbelief, or disapproval.
そんなこと言わないで。
Don't say that kind of thing.
The speaker wants to talk about a category of things that is distant or not directly present.
Neutral way to say 'that kind of' for something distant from both speaker and listener.
あのような建物は珍しい。
That kind of building is rare.
Casual spoken version of あのような.
ああいう人は信用できない。
I can't trust that kind of person.
Casual and often emotional. Can express strong feelings about something distant.
All mean 'this kind of', but differ in formality. このような is neutral/formal, こういう is casual spoken, こんな is very casual and often emotional. Use このような in business or writing, こういう in daily conversation, and こんな with close friends or when expressing strong feelings.
English 'this kind of' is often used as a filler or hedge. In Japanese, directly translating it can sound unnatural. Instead, use the appropriate demonstrative phrase only when you need to specify a type or category. If you're just hesitating, use fillers like ええと or あのう.
I didn't expect that kind of result.