Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "As" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "as", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
なるべく
なるべく (narubeku)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
〜につれて
〜につれて (〜ni tsurete)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "as" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between なるべく and 〜につれて.
In Japanese, なるべく (なるべく (narubeku)) is typically associated with "as much as possible, as ~ as one can" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Adverb. Used to encourage or suggest doing something to the greatest extent possible or practical..
On the other hand, 〜につれて (〜につれて (〜ni tsurete)) maps to "as X happens, Y also happens (correlation)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Expresses a proportional or correlational relationship. As X changes or progresses, Y also changes in a corresponding way. Often used for gradual changes or trends.. A literal translation of "as" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "なるべく"
なるべく早く来てください。
Please come as early as possible.
Bilingual Context for "〜につれて"
時間が経つにつれて、記憶が薄れていった。
As time passed, my memories faded.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ 早く来てください。" (Meaning: "Please come as early as possible.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "なるべく" fits here because it means "as much as possible, as ~ as one can" in the context of: "Please come as early as possible.". "〜につれて" represents "as X happens, Y also happens (correlation)".