Japanese word

言い方

Pronunciation

Romajiiikata

Meaning

  • nounexpression

Example

この言い方はよく使います。ko no i i kata wa yo ku tsuka i ma su

I often use this expression.

Illustration for 言い方 (expression)

More examples

子どもにも分かる言い方を選びます。ko do mo ni mo wa ka ru i i kata o era bi ma su

I choose a way of saying it that children can understand.

Core concept

It highlights how a speaker shapes a message through word choice and tone.

Common phrases

  • 丁寧な言い方tei nei na i i kata

    a polite way of saying ___

  • 別の言い方betsu no i i kata

    another way of saying ___

  • 言い方を変えるi i kata o ka e ru

    change the way one says something

Similar words

表現hyōgen: A way of conveying an idea or feeling through words.
言い回しiimawashi: A specific way of wording a thought or message.
言葉遣いkotobazukai: The words and level of politeness used in communication.
話し方hanashikata: The manner of speaking shown through voice, pace, and delivery.

Definition in Japanese

話す内容を表すために選ぶ言葉やその伝え方。hana su nai yō o arawa su ta me ni era bu koto ba ya so no tsuta e kata

Word origin

言い方 (iikata) is a noun made by attaching 方 (kata, "way") to 言い (ii), the continuative form of 言う (iu, "to say"), so it means a way of saying something.

Usage tips

  • A polite request and a blunt request can carry the same message but have different 言い方 (iikata), so the word highlights wording and tone.

Other meanings

  • way of saying ___noun

Word lists with this word