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では
dewa
then / in that case
A: 明日は会議があります。 B: では、9時に来てください。
A: There’s a meeting tomorrow. B: In that case, please come at 9.
formal
Used to indicate a transition to the next topic, action, or conclusion based on what was just said or decided.
時間がありません。では、始めましょう。
We don’t have time. Then, let’s begin.
A: これを買います。 B: では、レジでお支払いください。
A: I’ll buy this. B: In that case, please pay at the register.
formal
Used to mark the beginning of a new topic or section in speech or writing.
では、次に進みましょう。
Now, let’s move on to the next topic.
formal
Used to indicate a conditional or hypothetical situation (often followed by a verb phrase).
では、もし雨が降ったら、どうしますか。
Then, if it rains, what will you do?
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Casual Alternatives
For casual conversations, use 'じゃ' or 'それじゃ' (e.g., 'じゃ、行こう' = 'So, let’s go'). For formal settings, 'では' or 'それでは' is more appropriate (e.g., 'では、始めましょう' = 'Now, let’s begin').
Gold Rule
Transition Marker
Use 'では' to signal a shift in topic, action, or conclusion. It acts as a bridge between what was just said and what follows.
Word Origin
The word 'では' is a contraction of 'で' (the particle indicating a method, place, or reason) and 'は' (the topic-marking particle). Historically, it evolved from the combination of these two particles to form a transitional phrase in formal speech.
Usage Notes
1. 'では' is more formal than 'それじゃ' or 'じゃ', which are casual alternatives. It is commonly used in business, presentations, or polite conversations. 2. In written Japanese, 'それでは' is often preferred for a smoother flow, but 'では' is perfectly acceptable in both spoken and written contexts. 3. When used at the beginning of a sentence, it often introduces a new topic or action, similar to 'now' or 'then' in English.
Word Breakdown
で
indicates method, place, or reason (e.g., 'with this', 'because of this')
particleは
topic-marking particle
particle和英辞典