Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "As" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "as", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
やはり
やはり (yahari)
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 やはり and 〜につれて.
In Japanese, やはり (やはり (yahari)) is typically associated with "as expected, after all, too, also" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Adverb. Implies that something is as one thought or expected. Also has a slightly more formal variant '矢張り'.
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 "やはり"
やはり、彼はそのニュースを知っていました。
As expected, he knew that news.
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: " ___ 、彼はそのニュースを知っていました。" (Meaning: "As expected, he knew that news.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "やはり" fits here because it means "as expected, after all, too, also" in the context of: "As expected, he knew that news.". "〜につれて" represents "as X happens, Y also happens (correlation)".