Translation guide
The English word 'meaning' can refer to the definition of a word, the significance of something, or the intention behind an action. This guide helps learners express these ideas naturally in Japanese.
この言葉の意味は何ですか。
What is the meaning of this word?
どういう意味ですか。
What do you mean?
Asking for or stating what a word or expression means.
The most common and general word for 'meaning'. Used for definitions, significance, and implications.
What is the meaning of this word?
その単語の意味を辞書で調べた。
I looked up the meaning of that word in the dictionary.
Refers to the significance or value of something, often in a broader or more abstract sense. More formal than 意味.
この研究の意義は大きい。
The significance of this research is great.
Expressing that something has deep meaning or value.
Can also express significance, especially in phrases like 意味がある (to have meaning) or 意味のない (meaningless).
人生の意味について考える。
I think about the meaning of life.
この仕事には意味がある。
This work has meaning.
Emphasizes the deeper significance or worth, often used in formal contexts.
彼の行動には深い意義があった。
His actions had deep significance.
Literally 'value', but can be used when 'meaning' implies worth or importance.
Expressing what someone intends to convey or achieve.
Directly means 'intention' or 'purpose'. Used when 'meaning' refers to what someone meant to do or say.
彼の言葉の意図がわからない。
I don't understand the meaning (intention) behind his words.
その発言の意図を説明してください。
Please explain the meaning (intention) of that remark.
Can also imply intention in casual contexts, but 意図 is clearer.
それってどういう意味？
What do you mean by that? (What's the meaning/intention?)
Means 'intention' or 'plan', often used in phrases like 〜するつもり (intend to do). Not a direct translation of 'meaning' but used when expressing what one means to do.
Asking 'What do you mean?' or 'What does that mean?' in conversation.
Standard polite way to ask 'What does that mean?' or 'What do you mean?'
すみません、どういう意味ですか。
Excuse me, what does that mean?
More like 'What do you mean?' or 'What's going on?' Used when seeking explanation of a situation or statement.
それ、どういうこと？
What do you mean by that? (casual)
Very casual, like 'So, what do you mean?' or 'In other words?'
つまり、何が言いたいの？
So, what are you trying to say?
意味 (imi) is the general word for 'meaning' (definition, significance). 意義 (igi) is more formal and emphasizes value or significance. 意図 (ito) means 'intention' or 'purpose' behind an action or statement.
この言葉の意味を教えてください。
Please tell me the meaning of this word.
この会議の意義は何ですか。
What is the significance of this meeting?
彼の意図が理解できない。
I can't understand his intention.
English often uses 'mean' as a verb (e.g., 'What does this mean?'). In Japanese, use 意味 (noun) with です/ですか or other structures. Do not try to directly translate 'mean' as a verb.
これはどういう意味ですか。
What does this mean?
That experience has great meaning (value) for me.
I meant to go. (My meaning was to go.)