Processing keyword: ～によって (〜ni yotte)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～によって (〜ni yotte)

JLPT Grammar Point: ～によって (〜ni yotte)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ～によって (〜ni yotte) is used to express the idea of "by," "depending on," or "through." It is commonly used to indicate the means or method by which something is done or to describe the cause or reason for something.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The phrase indicates the method, means, or reason behind an action or situation.
• Structure:
  • The basic structure is: [Noun] + によって
  • It can also be used with verbs in the passive form to indicate the agent or source of an action.

Formation Diagram

[Subject] + は/が + [Action] + [Noun] + によって + [Result/Action]

Visual Aids

3. Comparative Analysis

• Compared to ～による (〜ni yoru), which sees more abstract usage often in written language (such as reports), ～によって can be used in a wider variety of contexts, including spoken language.
• ～から (〜kara) indicates a reason; however, it is less formal and direct than ～によって.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:

   • 環境問題は国によって異なります。(Kankyou mondai wa kuni ni yotte kotonarimasu.) Translation: Environmental issues vary depending on the country.

2. Informal:

   • 彼は運によって成功した。(Kare wa un ni yotte seikou shita.) Translation: He succeeded by luck.

3. Mixed Context:

   • この結果はデータによって裏付けられています。(Kono kekka wa deeta ni yotte urazukerareteimasu.) Translation: This result is backed by the data.

4. Passive Construction:

   • この問題は専門家によって解決されました。(Kono mondai wa senmonka ni yotte kaiketsu saremashita.) Translation: This problem was resolved by experts.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

Using ～によって can reflect levels of formality and respect in communication. Selecting the right form of expression acknowledges the hierarchy and cultural nuances in Japanese society.

Idiomatic Expressions

• それぞれによって (sorezore ni yotte): "depending on each"
• 情況による (joukyou ni yoru): "depending on the situation"

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Misusing 〜によって to refer to personal feelings or preferences where 〜から would be a better fit.
  • Incorrect: 私は疲れによって行きたくない。(Watashi wa tsukare ni yotte ikitakunai.)
  • Correct: 私は疲れから行きたくない。(Watashi wa tsukare kara ikitakunai.)

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic device: Think of "によって" as a bridge connecting the action and its source.
• Practice by converting sentences from passive to active forms to see the nuances of their meanings.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 〜によって conveys the means or reason.
• Different contexts favor different usages between similar expressions.
• Politeness and formality play a significant role in its application.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ～によって mean in English?
2. Which expression would you use to indicate a method in a formal report?
3. Convert the following to use "によって": "This was decided by the committee."