それに

• Reading: それに
• Romaji: soreni
• Formation: Sentence 1。それに + Sentence 2

Meaning

A conjunction meaning 'besides' or 'in addition,' used to introduce an additional item or statement that supplements the preceding one.

それに is one of the most natural and versatile additive conjunctions in Japanese. It simply adds more information to what was previously said, without the strong dramatic emphasis of しかも or the rhetorical weight of その上. It is commonly used in casual conversation to pile on reasons, describe features, or list things. It works equally well with positive and negative content. Because of its neutrality, it is often the safest choice for learners wanting to add information.

Examples

1. この町は静かだ。それに、自然も豊かだ。 This town is quiet. Besides, it is rich in nature.
2. 彼は料理が上手だ。それに、掃除もこまめにする。 He is good at cooking. In addition, he cleans diligently.
3. 今日は疲れた。それに、明日も早いんだ。 I'm tired today. Besides, I have to get up early tomorrow.

Usage Guide

Context: spoken, written, everyday

Tone: conversational

Do Say

• この靴は軽い。それに、デザインもおしゃれだ。
• 昨日は買い物に行った。それに、映画も見てきた。
• あの先生は説明が分かりやすい。それに、質問にも丁寧に答えてくれる。

Don't Say

• 明日は雨だ。それに、今日は晴れだ。(Using それに to introduce contradictory information — それに adds similar or supporting information, not contrasting facts) → 明日は雨だ。でも、今日は晴れだ。
• それに、おはようございます。(Using それに at the very start of a conversation — there must be a prior statement to add to) → おはようございます。

Origin & History

Composed of それ (that) and に (to/in addition). Literally 'to that,' meaning 'adding to that point.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal