ということだ (to iu koto da): It is reported that or this means that
～ということだ (to iu koto da)
Meaning
It is reported that; this means that
Formation and usage
Plain clause + ということだ for reported information or a conclusion. In reports, present affirmative nouns and na-adjectives can retain だ before と.
Explanation
Report information heard from a source, or summarize a conclusion drawn from prior information. A source is often stated in the reporting use. In the conclusion use it means this means that, not necessarily hearsay.
Examples
事務所の話では、明日の見学会は中止になるということです。
According to the office, tomorrow's tour will be canceled.
先生によると、試験は来週の金曜日だということです。
According to our teacher, the exam is next Friday.
連絡がないのは、まだ決まっていないということですね。
No news means that it has not been decided yet, right?
店の案内によると、月曜日は休みだということです。
According to the shop notice, it is closed on Mondays.
二人で六千円なら、一人三千円ということです。
If it is six thousand yen for two people, that means three thousand yen each.
How related patterns differ
まさか expresses disbelief or surprise. ということだ can report information or draw a conclusion without necessarily expressing surprise. 不思議ではない judges an event as understandable rather than unexpected.