いわゆる
What is called, So-called, Generally known
Structure
Explanation
いわゆる, which can also be written with its kanji 所謂, is a term placed before a noun to introduce something as 'what is known as (A)', 'the so-called (A)', or 'what you might call (A)'.
いわゆる is formed from a combination of いわ (a modern form of いは, the non-finite form of 言う, 'to say') and ゆる (a classical literary version of the auxiliary verb れる in its attributive form, indicating the passive voice). Because of this, the original meaning of 'what is said to be (A)' is reflected in its modern usage.
- あの店ではいわゆるファストファッションの服を売っています。That shop sells so-called fast fashion clothing.
- それがいわゆる「推し活」というものですね？So that's what's called 'oshi-katsu' (fandom activities), isn't it?
- これはいわゆる謙譲語の一つです。This is an example of what is known as humble language.
Fun-fact
The kanji 謂 can mean 'reason' or 'significance', which connects to how the word explains the name or nature of something as it is commonly understood.
Examples
あの人は所謂インフルエンサーというやつだ。
That person is what you'd call an influencer.
今の日本では、所謂終身雇用が崩壊しつつある。
In Japan today, the so-called lifetime employment system is starting to collapse.
これは所謂スーパーフードなので、体にいいですよ。
This is a so-called superfood, so it's good for you.
私の友達は所謂「猫派」で、三匹の猫を飼っている。
My friend is what you would call a "cat person" and owns three of them.
彼は所謂バブル世代で、私たちとは価値観が違う。
He's from the so-called "bubble generation," so his values are different from ours.
これは所謂「裏ワザ」というやつです。便利ですから、ぜひ試してください。
This is what you'd call a "lifehack." It's very convenient, so please give it a try.
私たちは所謂「地球温暖化」の問題を解決しなければならない。
We must solve the problem of what is known as "global warming."
この曲は所謂「ジェイポップ」だね。
This song is what you'd call "J-Pop," isn't it?
読み書きができないこと、所謂非識字ということです。
The inability to read and write; that is what is called illiteracy.
毎年春になると、所謂花粉症の症状が出る。
Every spring, I get symptoms of what is known as hay fever.
彼は所謂オタクで、アニメに詳しい。
He's a so-called "otaku" and is very knowledgeable about anime.
金持ちと貧乏な人の差、所謂「格差社会」が問題になっている。
The gap between the rich and the poor, what is known as the "social divide," is becoming an issue.