～という (〜to iu) Noun

When to use

'A ~ called X' (田中という人). Casual speech: っていう.

Explanation

The ～という grammar point is used to define or explain a noun more specifically. It is often translated as 'called', 'named', or 'that is to say' in English. It can be used with nouns, な-adjectives, and adjectival verbs.

• 宮崎みやざき駿という人ひとは有名ゆうめいなアニメーション監督かんとくです。

  The person called Hayao Miyazaki is a famous animation director.

  Miyazaki Hayao to iu hito wa yuumei na animation kantoku desu.

• 東京とうきょうという都市としは夜よるも賑にぎやかです。

  The city called Tokyo is bustling even at night.

  Tokyo to iu toshi wa yoru mo nigiyaka desu.

• 私わたしは「ハリーポッター」という本ほんが好すきです。

  I like the book called 'Harry Potter'.

  Watashi wa 'Harry Potter' to iu hon ga suki desu.

• 「さくら」という店みせで昼ひるご飯はんを食たべました。

  I had lunch at a restaurant called 'Sakura'.

  'Sakura' to iu mise de hirugohan o tabemashita.

Called / Quoting (Named / They Say)

• ～っていう〜tte iuN4Used to quote, define, or specify a noun.
• ～という〜to iuN4Used to quote, express hearsay or define something.
• ～というのは〜to iu no waN3Used to provide an explanation or definition; 'that is to…
• Noun + というもの~ to iu monoN1Used to express a generic concept: 'all ~', 'any ~ of that…

Compare when to use each