Processing keyword: ～に応じて (〜ni oujite)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～に応じて (〜ni oujite)

～に応じて (〜ni oujite)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the grammar point ～に応じて (〜ni oujite), a useful expression in Japanese that allows you to indicate that something changes or is done "in accordance with," "depending on," or "according to" certain circumstances or conditions. Mastering this grammar point will enable you to describe actions or outcomes that adjust based on varying factors.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• English Equivalents: "In accordance with," "depending on," "according to," "in response to."

Usage

• Used to express that an action, decision, or outcome varies or is adjusted based on specific situations, conditions, or criteria.

Structure

Formation

Diagram

[Condition Noun] + に応じて + [Action/Outcome]

Visual Aid: Structure Breakdown

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

～によって (〜ni yotte)

• Meaning: "Depending on," "by," "due to."
• Comparison: While both express dependency, ～によって can indicate cause, means, or methods, whereas ～に応じて emphasizes adjustment or correspondence to conditions.

～次第で (〜shidai de)

• Meaning: "Depending on," "as soon as."
• Comparison: ～次第で also means "depending on," but it's often used to express that something is contingent upon a preceding action or condition.

Comparison Table

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

Example 1: Formal Written

• 需要に応じて生産量を調整します。
  • Juyō ni oujite seisanryō wo chōsei shimasu.
  • We adjust production volume according to demand.

Example 2: Formal Spoken

• 社員の能力に応じて、適切な職務が与えられます。
  • Shain no nōryoku ni oujite, tekisetsu na shokumu ga ataeraremasu.
  • Appropriate duties are assigned according to employees' abilities.

Example 3: Informal Spoken

• 気分に応じて音楽を選ぶ。
  • Kibun ni oujite ongaku wo erabu.
  • I choose music according to my mood.

Example 4: Written Announcement

• 成績に応じて奨学金が支給されます。
  • Seiseki ni oujite shōgakukin ga shikyū saremasu.
  • Scholarships are awarded based on grades.

Example 5: Everyday Conversation

• 天候に応じて、イベントの内容を変更します。
  • Tenkō ni oujite, ibento no naiyō wo henkō shimasu.
  • We'll change the event's content depending on the weather.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese culture, adaptability and responsiveness to situations are highly valued. The use of ～に応じて reflects this cultural emphasis on adjusting one's actions to suit different contexts, maintaining harmony and appropriateness.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• ～に応じて is a neutral expression suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
• Adjust the politeness level by modifying the surrounding verbs and expressions.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 状況に応じた対応
  • Jōkyō ni oujita taiō
  • Meaning: Response appropriate to the situation.
• 需要に応じる
  • Juyō ni oujiru
  • Meaning: To meet demand.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

Common Mistake 1: Misplacing に応じて

• Incorrect: に応じて天気、服装を変える。
• Correct: 天気に応じて、服装を変える。
  • Explanation: Place に応じて immediately after the noun it modifies.

Common Mistake 2: Using with Verbs Directly

• Incorrect: 走るに応じて、景色が変わる。
• Correct: 速度に応じて、景色が変わる。
  • Explanation: に応じて should be used with nouns, not verbs.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Tip: Remember that 応じる (おうじる) means "to respond" or "to comply with." So, ～に応じて involves responding or adjusting according to something.
• Practice: Create sentences using ～に応じて with different nouns to become comfortable with the structure.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Meaning: ～に応じて expresses that an action or outcome changes "in accordance with" a condition or situation.
• Structure: Attach に応じて to a noun representing the condition.
• Usage: Suitable for both formal and informal contexts; adjust politeness accordingly.
• Cultural Aspect: Reflects the Japanese value of adaptability and appropriate response.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank with the correct particle: 人数＿応じて、料理の量を決めましょう。
   • Answer: に
2. True or False: ～に応じて can be used with verbs directly without a noun.
   • Answer: False
3. Choose the correct translation: "The company changes its policy in response to market trends." a) 会社は市場の傾向に応じて方針を変えます。 b) 会社は市場の傾向によって方針を変えます。
   • Answer: a)

By understanding and using ～に応じて, you can effectively communicate adjustments and responses to varying conditions in Japanese. Remember to pair it with a noun and adjust your sentence's politeness level to suit the context.

Practice Sentence Creation: Try creating your own sentences using ～に応じて. For example:

• あなたの予算に応じて、最適なプランを提案します。
  • Anata no yosan ni oujite, saiteki na puran wo teian shimasu.
  • We'll propose the best plan according to your budget. Feel free to share your sentences with peers or teachers for feedback!