Grammar › N2 · 14 Quoting and set expressions
〜というのは: the thing called; that is because
N2 · 14 Quoting and set expressions
Explains the meaning of a word, or gives the reason for what was just said.
Noun / plain form + というのは. Two uses: defining ('what is X?') and giving a reason in the next clause ending in から. Spoken: ってのは.
Examples
「ボランティア」というのは、自分から進んで人を助ける人のことだ。
A 'volunteer' is a person who helps others of their own accord.
行けないんだ。というのは、その日は用事があるから。
I can't go. The reason is that I have something to do that day.