JLPT N1 Advanced
抑
「そもそも」
In the first place, to begin with, or the very beginning.
Readings
Other forms
抑々 rarely used kanji
抑 rarely used kanji
1 Adverb, Conjunction
In the first place" / "To begin with
Signals a return to the root cause or original intent of a discussion, often to question the validity of the current premise.
Example
A この 計画 、 どう 思う ？
B うーん 、 そもそも この 計画 は 本当に 必要 なの ？
[A:] What do you think of this plan? [B:] Hmm, in the first place, is this plan really necessary?
3 more examples in the
mobile app
2 Noun
The origin" / "The very beginning
Designates the genesis, primary source, or initial state of a specific matter.
Usage notes & examples
available in the
mobile app