さよう
さ
よ
う
Meanings
1
usually written using kana alone
Formal or literary adjectival noun meaning 'in that manner' or 'such'. Often used in set phrases like さようなら (goodbye, from さようならば 'if it be so').
It is said that さようなら is an abbreviation of 左様ならば (if it be so).
His opinion is not so.
2
usually written using kana alone
Formal interjection used to express agreement or acknowledgment, similar to 'that is correct' or 'just so'.
"Is this document correct?" "That is right."
3
let me see; well now
usually written using kana alone
Formal interjection used when pausing to think or recall something, similar to 'let me see' or 'well now'. Often used in polite or old-fashioned speech.
Well now, where shall I begin?
Expressions
- ことほどさようにso ... that ...; to that extent; to that degree