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Japanese frequency list

No. 499 in Japanese

そもそも

"そもそも" means "in the first place" or "to begin with."

In a sentence

  • そもそも、なぜこの計画を始めたのか忘れてしまった。

    To begin with, I have forgotten why we started this project.

    Used to bring up the initial reason or premise for beginning something.

  • そもそも、彼の言うことは信じられない。

    In the first place, I cannot believe what he says.

    Emphasizes the original doubt or disbelief about something.

  • そもそも、その方法が適切かどうかすら怪しい。

    First and foremost, it's questionable whether that method is even appropriate.

    Indicates primary concerns or doubts in evaluating a topic.

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