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How to say "Be" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "be", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

繋がる

つながる (tsunagaru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

劣る

おとる (otoru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "be" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 繋がる and 劣る. In Japanese, 繋がる (つながる (tsunagaru)) is typically associated with "to be connected, to be tied, to be linked (intransitive)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents 物と物が結びついている状態を表す「自動詞」です。電話が通じる、関係がある、などの意味でも使われます。/ An intransitive verb describing a state where objects are linked. Also used for phone connections or having a relationship.. On the other hand, 劣る (おとる (otoru)) maps to "to be inferior to, to be less than" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to compare quality, ability, or performance, indicating one is not as good as another. Often used with より.. A literal translation of "be" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "繋がる"
この道は駅に繋がっている。
This road leads to the station.
Bilingual Context for "劣る"
彼は私より体力では劣る。
He is physically weaker than I am.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "この道は駅に繋がっている。" (Meaning: "This road leads to the station.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "繋がる" fits here because it means "to be connected, to be tied, to be linked (intransitive)" in the context of: "This road leads to the station.". "劣る" represents "to be inferior to, to be less than".