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March 24, 2026
也就是说(也就是說)yějiùshìshuō(ye3jiu4shi4shuo1)
也就是说 is an idiomatic expression used to clarify or rephrase a statement. It serves to introduce a more understandable or simpler explanation of what has just been said, effectively meaning 'in other words' or 'that is to say.' It is commonly used in both spoken and written contexts to ensure comprehension.
Frequency#2068DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese discourse, clarity and understanding are highly valued, and expressions like 也就是说 reflect this cultural emphasis on effective communication. It is often used in academic and professional settings to ensure that the audience is following the argument.
Memory Tip
Imagine a speaker pausing and saying 'ye3 jiu4 shi4 shuo1' while pointing at a confused audience, as if saying, 'Let me clarify that for you.' The components of the phrase reflect a transition from a complex idea to a clearer expression, much like a bridge over a river of confusion.
Meanings of 也就是说
yějiùshìshuō(ye3jiu4shi4shuo1)
1in other words
2that is to say
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About 也就是说
也就是说Simplified
也就是說Traditional
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HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
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Podcast: 也就是说
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AI Study Notes for 也就是说
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a speaker pausing and saying 'ye3 jiu4 shi4 shuo1' while pointing at a confused audience, as if saying, 'Let me clarify that for you.' The components of the phrase reflect a transition from a complex idea to a clearer expression, much like a bridge over a river of confusion.
Usage Notes
Common mistakes include using this phrase too formally in casual conversations or omitting it when it would enhance clarity. It is generally used in both formal and informal registers, but learners should be cautious of overusing it in everyday speech. A typical collocation is with explanations, e.g., '这就是我为什么...' (This is why...).
HSK Study Tips
Although 也就是说 is not an HSK level term, it can be beneficial for learners at HSK 4 and above as it helps in understanding complex sentences. Students should focus on recognizing it in contexts where clarification is needed, enhancing their comprehension skills.
Cultural Note
In Chinese discourse, clarity and understanding are highly valued, and expressions like 也就是说 reflect this cultural emphasis on effective communication. It is often used in academic and professional settings to ensure that the audience is following the argument.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mistakenly translate 也就是说 directly as 'that is say,' which is incorrect. The correct translation is 'that is to say' or 'in other words.' Another common mistake is using it too frequently, resulting in redundancy.
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Pronunciation of 也就是说
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Cultural Notes for 也就是说
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese discourse, clarity and understanding are highly valued, and expressions like 也就是说 reflect this cultural emphasis on effective communication. It is often used in academic and professional settings to ensure that the audience is following the argument.
Frequently Asked Questions about 也就是说
Yes, it's appropriate in both formal and informal settings, but be mindful of the context.
Yes, 也就是说 emphasizes the clarification aspect more explicitly than 就是说.
Yes, it can be used at the beginning of a sentence to introduce a clarification.