Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "As" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "as", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
〜につれて
〜につれて (〜ni tsurete)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
〜として
〜として (〜 to shite)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "as" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 〜につれて and 〜として.
In Japanese, 〜につれて (〜につれて (〜ni tsurete)) is typically associated with "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..
On the other hand, 〜として (〜として (〜 to shite)) maps to "as, in the capacity of" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to indicate the role, capacity, qualification, or position someone or something holds. Can also indicate a standard or criterion.. A literal translation of "as" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
Bilingual Context for "〜として"
彼は医者として、人々の健康を守っている。
As a doctor, he protects people's health.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "時間が経つにつれて、記憶が薄れていった。" (Meaning: "As time passed, my memories faded.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "〜につれて" fits here because it means "as X happens, Y also happens (correlation)" in the context of: "As time passed, my memories faded.". "〜として" represents "as, in the capacity of".