つまり
Meanings
that is; in other words; I mean
Used to restate, identify, or clarify what has just been said. It often introduces an equivalent explanation rather than a new result.
She is my father's older sister, that is, my aunt.
in short; basically; what it comes down to
Introduces the essential point, summary, or final interpretation after considering details. It is close to 'basically' or 'when all is said and done,' not necessarily a purely chronological 'finally.'
There are various reasons, but basically it comes down to not having enough money.
clogging; blockage; obstruction
Noun use for something being physically blocked or clogged, as in pipes, drains, filters, or narrow passages. The kanji 詰まり is more natural here than in the discourse senses.
Please clear the clog in the drain.
Specialized or limited noun use for a reduction in size, length, or dimensions. In everyday Japanese, 縮み is often the more transparent word for shrinkage.
On the inspection sheet, 詰まり after washing means dimensional shrinkage.
Archaic noun use referring to a place where one is blocked in, such as a dead end or corner. It is not a normal modern standalone use.
In old writing, 道のつまり can refer to a dead end.
distress; being at the end of one's rope
Archaic noun use for being driven into difficulty or having no way out. Modern Japanese would normally use expressions such as 窮地 or 困窮 instead.
In old examples, つまり can describe a state of being at the end of one's rope.
Usage patterns
- つまり、〈事〉ということだthat is to say, ~ (restating a point)
It seems he's not coming. In other words, the party is off.
- つまり、〈事〉なのだbasically, ~ (summing up after consideration)
I thought it over, and basically, he's the one at fault.
- 〈場所〉の詰まりを取るto clear a blockage/clog in a place (e.g. a pipe or drain)
I cleared the clog in the drain pipe.
Expressions
- とどのつまりin the end; after all; when all is said and done