もとい 元はと言えば LinksSentence search for 元はと言えばSentence search for もとはといえばSentence search for もとはと言えばKanji details for 元 and 言Edit in JMdict Expressions (phrases, clauses, etc.)1. when it comes to the cause; when you get right down to it; as for what started it; as for the reason; originallyOther formsもとはと言えば 【もとはといえば】 Discussions Log in to talk about this word.