N2193/217

いわゆる

いわゆる + Nounいわゆる + Noun phrase

Meanings

  • What is called
  • So-called
  • Generally known
  • As people say

About this pattern

Explanation

いわゆる is used when referring to something that is widely known by a certain label or name, often with a nuance of skepticism or that the label is common but perhaps debatable. It signals that the speaker is using a familiar term that may not fully reflect the reality. It can carry a sense of shared cultural understanding or a somewhat critical tone about the way something is popularly described.

Learn in context

Example sentences

彼は、いわゆるエリートだが、実際は仕事が苦手だ。

He is the so-called elite, but in reality he’s not good at his job.

いわゆる美人女優と言われても、演技は決して上手いとは限らない。

Even though she’s regarded as a so-called beautiful actress, her acting isn’t necessarily great.

いわゆるお金持ち家庭でも、家族関係は必ずしも安定しているわけではない。

Even in so-called wealthy families, family relationships are not always stable.