こう

• Reading: こう
• Romaji: kou
• Pronunciation: /koː/

Meaning

In this way; like this; so; thus. Refers to manner near the speaker.

Part of the ko-so-a-do demonstrative system for manner: こう (this way, near speaker), そう (that way, near listener), ああ (that way, far from both), どう (which way, question). Often used with する to mean 'do it like this.' Frequently appears in explanations and instructions.

Examples

1. こうやって折り紙を作ります。 This is how you make origami.
2. ボタンをこう押してください。 Press the button like this.
3. こう考えると簡単ですよ。 When you think about it this way, it's easy.

Usage Guide

Context: instructions, explanations, demonstrations

Tone: instructive

Origin & History

From the ancient Japanese ko-so-a-do demonstrative system. こう uses the 'ko' prefix indicating proximity to the speaker, combined with an adverbial form expressing manner.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal