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    ところで (tokorode - by the way, incidentally - often for a topic change)

    Grammar & Usage

    fixed expression
    neutral

    How it works

    ところ (tokoro) literally means 'place' or 'point', and the particle で (de) indicates location or means. Together, ところで (tokorode) functions as a discourse marker to smoothly transition to a new, often unrelated, topic in conversation or writing. It signals to the listener/reader that the previous subject is concluded and a new one is about to be introduced.

    Sample sentences

    昨日、新しいレストランに行ったんだ。美味しかったよ。ところで、今週末は何するの？

    Yesterday, I went to a new restaurant. It was delicious. By the way, what are you doing this weekend?

    このプロジェクトは順調に進んでいます。ところで、来月の会議はいつでしたっけ？

    This project is proceeding smoothly. Incidentally, when was next month's meeting?

    今日は暑いですね。ところで、田中さんは元気ですか？

    It's hot today, isn't it? By the way, how is Tanaka-san doing?

    Quick facts

    usageContext:Primarily used to introduce a new topic that is not directly related to the current conversation, or to bring up something that just came to mind. It can also be used to ask a question that feels like an afterthought.

    Mnemonic

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    Example

    昨日、新しいレストランに行ったんだ。美味しかったよ。ところで、今週末は何するの？

    Yesterday, I went to a new restaurant. It was delicious. By the way, what are you doing this weekend?

    このプロジェクトは順調に進んでいます。ところで、来月の会議はいつでしたっけ？

    This project is proceeding smoothly. Incidentally, when was next month's meeting?

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