The term “sou sou” (そうそう) in Japanese can be understood in a few different contexts, but it primarily serves as a conversational expression. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its meanings and uses:
1. Affirmation or Agreement
In casual conversation, “sou sou” is often used to express agreement or affirmation, similar to saying “exactly” or “that’s right” in English. It indicates that the speaker agrees with what has been said or wants to confirm a statement.
- Usage Example:
- A: “最近忙しいそうだね。” (I hear you’ve been busy lately.)
- B: “そうそう、忙しくて大変。” (Exactly, I’ve been really busy.)
2. Prompting a Recall
“Sou sou” can also be used as a way to prompt the listener to recall something that is related to the current topic of conversation. It essentially means “by the way” or “speaking of that.”
- Usage Example:
- A: “明日の会議、大事だね。” (Tomorrow’s meeting is important.)
- B: “そうそう、それについての資料まだ作ってない。” (Speaking of that, I haven’t prepared the materials yet.)
3. Common Expression in Storytelling
In storytelling or informal narratives, “sou sou” can introduce a new piece of information or related anecdote, similar to saying “oh, that reminds me.”
- Usage Example:
- “そうそう、昨日の夜、すごい映画を見たよ。” (Oh, by the way, I saw an amazing movie last night.)
4. Variations and Related Expressions
- Related Words: Variations include “そうだ” (sou da) which is also used for affirmation but can be a bit more formal.
- Contextual Use: Context is key in Japanese; the meaning of “sou sou” can slightly change depending on intonation and the topic being discussed.
Conclusion
In summary, “sou sou” is a versatile phrase commonly used in Japanese conversations to express agreement, prompt a related thought, or transition to a new topic. Understanding the nuances of this expression can greatly improve your conversational Japanese and help you engage more naturally with native speakers. When using “sou sou,” remember to pay attention to the context and the flow of the conversation for the most effective communication.