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What does the Japanese phrase "さすが (sasuga)" mean? Explanation of usage, paraphrased expressions, and example sentences

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Men and women high-fiving each other with compliments for being "as good as it gets."

The Japanese word "as expected" is a phrase commonly used among Japanese, but this expression has many different nuances depending on how it is used. In this article, we will explain in detail the meaning of "as expected," its unique nuances, paraphrased expressions, and even its usage with example sentences for non-Japanese speakers. Let's learn how to use the word in a way that is more natural and closer to Japanese sensibilities.

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Meaning of Japanese "さすが (sasuga)" and JLPT level

The Japanese word "as expected" is mainly used in the sense of "as expected" or "praise. This term is used when someone's actions or results meet or exceed expectations and is appropriate for expressing respect or admiration.

In addition, "as expected" is classified at the N4 level on the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) and is one of the relatively easy vocabulary words encountered in the early stages of learning. Although this word is often classified as an adjectival verb, it can also function as an adverb in some contexts, and its usage varies. For learners of Japanese, understanding and mastering the proper use of "as expected" is an important step in expressing the rich nuances of the Japanese language.

To learn more about the JLPT, we also recommend the following articles
What is the level difference between JLPT N1, N2, and N3?

【 with example sentence 】 Three uses and paraphrases of "さすが (sasuga)"

The unique nuance of "as expected" adds richness to Japanese conversation.

Below are three main situations in which "as expected" is used and examples of how to paraphrase each.

1. expressing admiration for results that are in line with expectations

As expected" is used to express admiration or praise when witnessing an accomplishment or action that meets one's expectations. This sentiment shows respect and trust in the abilities and accomplishments of the other person.

  • I can't believe you got a perfect score on the exam.even... (e.g. "even a genius...")Yes.
  • You know everything,even... (e.g. "even a genius...")Pro.

Paraphrase of "as expected" meaning "as expected.

To paraphrase with the meaning of "as expected," it would look like this

  • I can't believe you got a perfect score on the exam.even... (e.g. "even a genius...")I knew you could do it. →I knew you could do it. It's amazing that you got a perfect score on the exam.
  • You know everything,even... (e.g. "even a genius...")Professional. →You're a pro, and you know everything.

2. suggest limits and limitations

When used in the form "as expected," it suggests that a certain situation or behavior has exceeded a limit or tolerance. This expression is useful when reacting to a situation that has exceeded some degree of endurance or tolerance.

  • I like curry, but if I ate it every day.even... (e.g. "even a genius...")I get tired of the
  • This issue.even... (e.g. "even a genius...")I can't solve it.　etc.

Paraphrase of "as expected" meaning "even so."

To paraphrase with the meaning of "even so," it would look like this

  • I like curry, but if I ate it every day.even... (e.g. "even a genius...")I get bored with →I like curry, but even so, I would get bored if I ate it every day.
  • This issue.even... (e.g. "even a genius...")I can't solve this problem. →I could solve the problems up to this point, but this problem is too difficult to solve.

3. acknowledging the limitations of a particular situation

Here, "as expected" is used to indicate an acknowledgement of the limits of ability or potential in a given situation. This usage helps to convey how difficult the challenge of the situation is, while still acknowledging the ability.

  • even... (e.g. "even a genius...")You, too, will not be able to solve this problem.
  • even... (e.g. "even a genius...")I can't eat 1 kg of steak even if I am a

In this case, it is often used as "as expected, too.

Paraphrase of "as expected" meaning "it will be impossible" while acknowledging someone.

To paraphrase a statement that acknowledges a person but includes the feeling that "it would be impossible," the following would be used.

  • even... (e.g. "even a genius...")You are great, but you won't be able to solve this problem because it's too hard. →You are also great, but you won't be able to solve this problem because it's too hard.
  • even... (e.g. "even a genius...")I can't eat 1kg of steak. →I love steak, but 1 kg of steak is too much for me.

Reference:Meaning of "display" - goo Japanese Dictionary　

What is the Kanji notation for "さすが (sasuga)"?

The word "as expected" is often written in kanji as "流石," and rarely as "贖," but "流石" is more widely known in Japan as the common way of writing the word. The "nagare" and "seki" in this Chinese character are never read independently as "as expected," but combined they create this special reading. These notations are called hateji, or guessed kanji, and the kanji are specially chosen to express the meaning and sound of a word.

There is a theory that the background of the use of "ryu-ishi" in the Chinese character for "as expected" derives from classical Chinese literature and a legendary story. In particular, the four-character idiom "Soseki Makura-ryu" (漱石枕流), which symbolizes that a certain person has a heart as pure as flowing water, is believed to have influenced the use of "ryu-ishi" in the spelling. It is also said that this legend also became the origin of the pen name of the famous Japanese novelist "Natsume Soseki. Thus, the Chinese character for "as expected" has a deep historical and cultural background that goes beyond mere characters.

Reference:Why do we read "Nagareishi" as "As expected"? - Neterabo

Notes on the use of "さすが (sasuga)

The word "as expected" is often used in everyday Japanese conversation and is taken with a positive connotation. However, you need to carefully assess the situation when using this word. In Japanese culture, social standing and relationships with others are valued, so one should be cautious when using this word, especially with superiors. Even if the intention is to use the word as a compliment, using it with a superior can sometimes be perceived as a lack of respect or too much friendliness.

For example, when saying "as expected" to a superior or senior, it is important to consider the context of the situation and your own language. Although this single word can show respect for the other person, it can also cause misunderstanding, so it is important to fully understand the relationship with the other person and the flow of the conversation before using it.

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summary

Throughout this article, we have explained the meaning of the word "as expected," its JLPT level, usage, example sentences, and kanji notation. We also introduced some points to keep in mind when using "as expected". This expression is very useful when acknowledging someone's achievements or actions, but it is important to use it appropriately depending on the context and your relationship with the other person. Please refer to this article to learn how to use "as expected.

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