それほど

• Reading: それほど
• Romaji: sorehodo
• Pronunciation: /so.ɾe.ho.do/

Meaning

To that degree; that much; so. Often used with negatives to mean 'not that much.'

An adverb combining それ (that) and ほど (degree/extent). Most frequently used with negative predicates: それほど + negative = 'not that much/not to that extent.' In affirmative sentences, emphasises a surprisingly high degree. Common in both casual and polite speech.

Examples

1. この問題はそれほど難しくないですよ。 This problem isn't that difficult, you know.
2. 今日はそれほど暑くなかったです。 It wasn't that hot today.
3. 彼の話はそれほど面白いとは思わなかった。 I didn't think his story was all that interesting.

Usage Guide

Context: comparisons, moderation, opinions

Tone: measured

Origin & History

A compound of the demonstrative それ (sore, that) and ほど (hodo, degree/extent). Literally 'to that extent' — a transparent combination whose meaning derives directly from its parts.

Cultural Context

Era: Early Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal