How to say "thus" in Japanese

Choosing the right word

そうJLPT N3approx.Common
adverbCovers 'thus' in the sense of 'in that way; so', referring back to something just mentioned. This is usually the word you want for 'thus' as a manner adverb, e.g. 'thus it was decided'.
もう私は大人おとなだから、そうは考かんがえない。↗
Now that I'm a grownup, I think otherwise.
そしてJLPT N5approx.Common
conjunctionIts 'thus' gloss reflects the connective sense 'and so; and then', linking events or clauses in sequence. It is not a manner adverb, so for 'in that way' it is seldom the word you want.
私は京都きょうとと、そして奈良ならにも訪おとずれる計画けいかくを立たてている。↗
I am planning to visit Kyoto, and Nara as well.
こうJLPT N4approx.Common
adverbCovers 'thus' meaning 'in this way; like this', pointing to the manner at hand or about to be shown. Choose it when the English 'thus' could be replaced by 'this way' rather than 'that way'.
違ちがいはこうだ。つまり、彼かれのほうが君きみよりよく働はたらくのだ。↗
The difference is this: he works harder than you.

Use 「そう」 for 'thus' meaning 'in that way', 「こう」 for 'in this way/like this', and 「そして」 only when 'thus' really means 'and then/and so' in narration.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

Japanese equivalents

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