HomeGrammarJLPT N1A というか B というか (A to iu ka B to iu ka)

A というか B というか (A to iu ka B to iu ka)

JLPT N1

Explanation

Means 'rather than say A, it's more like B', or 'whether to call it A or B'.

Formation

Detailed explanation

The grammar 'A というか B というか' is used when the speaker isn't sure which expression (A or B) describes the situation better. It can be translated as 'rather than A, it's more B' or 'should I call it A or B?'.

Examples

Kare wa burei to iu ka, chokusetsuteki to iu ka, tonikaku hakkiri shite iru.

He's rather rude, or maybe just direct; in any case, he is very blunt.

Kono eiga wa omoshiroi to iu ka, hen to iu ka, tonikaku fushigi na fun'iki ga aru.

This movie is interesting or maybe strange; anyway, it has a mysterious vibe.

Kare no e wa subarashii to iu ka, odoroku beki to iu ka, hontou ni miru kachi ga aru.

His paintings are wonderful, or perhaps astonishing; they're definitely worth seeing.

Kanojo no fuku wa kawaii to iu ka, hade to iu ka, tonikaku hitome o hiku.

Her outfit is cute or maybe flashy; in any case, it grabs people's attention.

Practice

Grammar content sourced from hanabira.org.