Translation guide
Expresses doing something in a particular way or style, often referring back to a previously mentioned manner. Japanese uses various adverbial forms and phrases depending on formality, context, and whether the manner is visible or abstract.
To say that something is done in the manner just described or understood from context.
The most common and neutral way to say 'in that manner'. It is an adverbial form of そのよう (like that). Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
そのようにしてください。
Please do it in that manner.
彼はそのように言った。
He said it in that way.
A shorter, more casual adverb meaning 'in that way' or 'like that'. Very common in conversation. Often used with verbs like する (do) or 言う (say).
そうしないでください。
Please don't do it in that manner.
そう言ってくれてありがとう。
Thank you for saying that (in that way).
Literally 'in that style/manner'. More descriptive and slightly more emphatic than そう. Often used when describing a specific way of doing something.
そんなふうに歩かないで。
Don't walk in that manner.
To express 'in that manner' in formal speech, writing, or polite contexts.
Already covered above, but it is also the standard formal option. It can be used in keigo (polite language) without issue.
そのように承りました。
I understand it in that manner. (humble/formal)
A very formal, literary expression meaning 'in this/that manner'. Rarely used in modern conversation; found in formal speeches or classical writing.
かくのごとく、問題は解決された。
In this manner, the problem was resolved.
To refer to a manner that is being demonstrated or is physically visible.
Used when the manner is distant from both speaker and listener, or when referring to a known third party's way. 'In that way (over there)'.
あのようにやってみて。
Try doing it in that manner (like that person over there).
A more colloquial form of そう, often used when demonstrating or instructing. 'Like that, in that way'.
そうやってボタンを押すんだ。
You press the button in that manner.
To emphasize the particular manner, often with a nuance of 'to that extent' or 'in such a way'.
Often used with adjectives or verbs to mean 'to that extent' or 'in such a way'. Can imply 'so much' or 'like that'.
そんなに急いでどこへ行くの？
Where are you going in such a hurry? (in that hurried manner)
Similar to そんなに but refers to a manner distant from both speaker and listener, or to a third party.
そう is the most casual and common. そのように is slightly more formal and explicit. そんなふうに emphasizes the style or appearance of the action. In many cases they are interchangeable, but そう is preferred in quick, informal speech.
そう言った。
Said it like that. (casual)
そのように言いました。
Said it in that manner. (polite)
そんなふうに言わないで。
Don't say it in that way (with that tone/style).
English 'in that manner' can often be replaced by simpler adverbs in Japanese. Using overly literal translations like その方法で (by that method) may sound unnatural when referring to a general way of doing something. Stick to そう or そのように for most cases.
あんなに練習したのに負けた。
Even though I practiced in that manner (so much), I lost.