N335/219

ということだ

Clause(plain form) + ということだNoun + ということだPolite form: Clause + ということですPast form: Clause + ということだった

Meanings

  • I heard that
  • Rumor has it that
  • It is said that
  • It means that

About this pattern

Explanation

ということだ is used to report information you heard or to summarize what something means based on what you observed or inferred. It can convey hearsay or conclusions drawn from a situation. It often follows a plain verb/ichi form or a noun to express 'it means that …' or 'I hear that …'. In casual speech it states information as a fact you’ve learned; in formal contexts, ということです/でした is used. Be mindful of nuance: it can imply you are relaying someone else’s statement or general consensus, not necessarily your own assertion.

Learn in context

Example sentences

田中さんは来ないということだ。

It means that Tanaka won’t come.

明日、雨が降るということだ。

It is said that it will rain tomorrow.

今日が締め切りだということだ。

Today is the deadline (that’s what it means).

彼女は新しい仕事を見つけたということだ。

She has found a new job (that’s what I’ve heard).

この薬は食後に飲むと副作用が少ないということだ。

This medicine has fewer side effects when taken after meals.