Grammar Info

N3 Lesson 6: 1/24

さて

Well, Well then

Structure Legend

Structure

さて + (New Topic) Phrase

Details

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About さて

Acting as a conjunction, さて is a word used when one wants to change the topic of conversation, or is ready to move on to a new point. Usually it is translated as 'well', or 'well then'.
さて will appear at the beginning of a sentence, before the speaker highlights what the new topic is.
  • さて、そろそろ()ますか。
    Well then, let's head off soon.
  • さて、とりあえず乾杯(かんぱい)ましょう
    Well, first things first, let's have a toast.
Fun Fact
Although さて is extremely rarely written in kanji, (さて) or (さて) may be seen every now and then. Both of these kanji have the same meaning of 'now' (now being the beginning of something new).
  • (さて)この問題(もんだい)(こた)()かる(ひと)はいますか。
    Now, is there anyone here that knows the answer to this question.
  • (さて)その荷物(にもつ)この(はこ)(うえ)おいてください
    Now, please place that luggage on top of this box.

Examples

  • さて、そろそろ実験(じっけん)(はじ)ときだ。

    Well, it is about time to start the experiment.

  • さて順番(じゅんばん)(なら)べましたか。

    Well then, have you lined up in order?

  • さて出発(しゅっぱつ)してもいいでしょうか。

    Well then, may I take off?

  • さて()きましょうか。

    Well then, shall we go?

  • さて準備(じゅんび)はできましたか。

    Well then, are you ready?

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さて – Grammar Discussion

Most Recent Replies (1 in total)

  • Johnathan-Weir

    Johnathan-Weir

    About 3 years ago

    I think a note should be made that the new topic has to have some connection to the previous. Otherwise if it’s completely unrelated ところで is better.

    According to this video at least:

    Additionly, I think it might be good having examples where さて is in the middle showing the transition between topics.

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