Japanese word

では

Pronunciation

Romajidewa

Meaning

  • conjunctionwell then

Example

では、始めましょう。de wa haji me ma shō

Well then, let's begin.

Illustration for では (well then)

More examples

では、休憩にしましょう。de wa kyū kei ni shi ma shō

Well then, let's take a break.

Core concept

Marks a transition from what has just been said to the next statement or action.

Common phrases

  • では、どうぞde wa dō zo

    well then, go ahead

  • では、またde wa ma ta

    well then, see you again

Similar words

じゃあjā: Marks a casual transition to the next statement or action.
それではsoredewa: Marks a transition from the current situation to the next statement or action.
それならsorenara: Introduces a conclusion or action based on what was just said.

Definition in Japanese

話題を受けて、次の発言や行動へ移る気持ちを表す語。wa dai o u ke te tsugi no hatsu gen ya kō dō e utsu ru ki mo chi o arawa su go

Word origin

The conjunction では (dewa) combines で (de, the continuative form of the copula) with は (wa, a topic or contrast particle).

Usage tips

  • The phrase では (dewa) is a routine transition in polite conversation, so its meaning depends on the situation rather than on the word well alone.

Other meanings

  • thenconjunction
  • wellconjunction

Word lists with this word