Defining Concepts: 所谓……就是……
所谓……就是……
Use the pattern 所谓……就是…… to define or explain the meaning of a concept or term
所谓 (the so-called / what is meant by) introduces a concept, and 就是 (is precisely / means) provides the definition or explanation. Together, they form a defining pattern.
所谓 can be neutral (simply defining a term) or slightly skeptical (implying the term is questionable). Context determines the tone. When defining, it is neutral; when criticizing, it carries irony.
Lesson Targets
Podcast
Podcast: Defining Concepts: 所谓……就是…… (所谓……就是……)
Listen to Jason & Amy explain the 所谓……就是…… pattern
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Understanding 所谓……就是……
The 所谓……就是…… pattern is a powerful tool for defining terms, explaining concepts, or offering your personal interpretation of an idea. 所谓 literally means "what is called" — it introduces the term being defined. 就是 then provides the definition. For example: 所谓幸福，就是简简单单地过每一天 (What we call happiness is simply living each day in a simple way). This pattern is common in essays, speeches, and philosophical discussions. It also appears in everyday conversation when someone wants to explain what they mean by a particular word. Note that 所谓 can also carry a dismissive or ironic tone — 所谓的专家 (the so-called experts) suggests skepticism. But in the 所谓……就是…… pattern for definition, the tone is typically neutral and explanatory.
Key Points
- 所谓 + X + 就是 + Y = "What is called X is Y" — a defining pattern.
- 所谓 = "the so-called / what is meant by" — introduces the term.
- 就是 = "is precisely / means" — introduces the definition.
- Neutral tone when defining; can be ironic when 所谓的 modifies a noun directly.
- Common in essays, speeches, philosophical discussions, and explanations.
- A powerful pattern for HSK 7-9 writing when you need to define key terms.
Chinese philosophical tradition loves definition and re-definition. Confucius himself practiced 正名 (rectification of names) — defining terms precisely. Using 所谓……就是…… connects you to this tradition of careful, thoughtful definition.
Key Vocabulary
Example Sentences
所谓幸福，就是简简单单地过每一天。
What we call happiness is simply living each day in a simple way.
所谓成功，就是做自己喜欢的事并且做好。
What we call success is doing what you love and doing it well.
所谓入乡随俗，就是到了一个新地方要尊重当地的风俗习惯。
"When in Rome, do as the Romans do" means respecting local customs when you arrive in a new place.
所谓朋友，就是在你困难的时候愿意帮助你的人。
What we call a friend is someone willing to help you when you are in difficulty.
所谓知足常乐，就是对自己拥有的感到满足，这样才能快乐。
"Contentment brings happiness" means being satisfied with what you have — only then can you be happy.
所谓团队精神，就是每个人都为共同目标而努力。
What we call team spirit is everyone working toward a common goal.
Common Mistakes
所谓 introduces the concept to be defined, followed by a comma, then 就是 provides the definition. Do not jumble the order.
In the defining pattern, use 所谓 directly before the concept without 的. Adding 的 (所谓的) shifts to the ironic/dismissive usage.
Practice Exercises
Tips & Tricks
Use this pattern in essays to define key terms before discussing them — it shows analytical thinking.
所谓 without 的 = neutral definition. 所谓的 = ironic/dismissive ("the so-called...").
Great for philosophical discussions: 所谓人生，就是…… (What we call life is...)
Practice by defining abstract concepts: happiness, success, love, friendship.
Homework
Define five abstract concepts (e.g., 勇气, 成长, 爱情, 智慧, 自由) using the 所谓……就是…… pattern, giving your own personal interpretation for each.