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
〜まま
〜まま (〜mama)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "as" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 〜につれて and 〜まま.
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, 〜まま (〜まま (〜mama)) maps to "as it is, without changing, in the state of" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Indicates that something remains in its current state or condition. Used with nouns. 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 "〜まま"
電気をつけたまま寝てしまった。
I fell asleep with the lights on.
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.". "〜まま" represents "as it is, without changing, in the state of".