そうっと

そうっと

softly, cautiously, gently

JLPT N2

Meaning and Usage

"そうっと" is an adverb used to describe actions done softly, gently, or cautiously. It often implies carefulness to avoid making noise or causing disturbance.

Common Contexts

You will hear "そうっと" when someone wants to move quietly, such as closing a door without waking someone, or touching something delicately.

Collocations and Patterns

  • そうっと + verb (e.g., そうっと歩く): to do something quietly or gently
  • そうっと + ドアを閉める: to close the door softly

Register and Nuance

"そうっと" is casual and commonly used in everyday conversation. It conveys a gentle or cautious attitude without being overly formal.

Learner Tips

Don't confuse "そうっと" with "そっと" which has a very similar meaning but can sometimes feel more emotional or intimate. "そうっと" often emphasizes the carefulness or softness of the action.

Example Sentences

かれはそうっとドアをしめた。

He gently closed the door.

あかちゃんがねているので、そうっとあるいてください。

The baby is sleeping, so please walk quietly.

そうっとてをのばして、はなをさわった。

I gently reached out and touched the flower.