How to Say ‘Oh, really?’ in Japanese
そうですか。
sou desu ka
[soh desu kah]
💬 Usage Tip: Despite the translation, this isn't doubt; it's an "oh, I see" that keeps the conversation going. Said with falling pitch it sounds natural, not surprised.
Phrase Breakdown
そう
sou
[soh]
so; that way
そう refers to something just mentioned and means 'so' or 'like that.'
そうですか。
I see. Is that so?
です
desu
[desu]
is; am; are
A polite copula used to make statements and questions.
ここは出口です。
This is the exit.
か
ka
[kah]
question particle
「か」で依頼を質問の形にします。語尾を上げると自然です。
手順を説明してもらえますか。
Could you explain the procedure?
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