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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

案じる

あんじる (anjiru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "be" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 繋がる and 案じる. 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, 案じる (あんじる (anjiru)) maps to "to be anxious, to worry about, to be concerned about" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used for deeper, more significant worries, or when considering a plan carefully. 辞書形は「案じる」ですが、通常「〜を案じている」や「〜を案じること」のように使われます。. 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 "案じる"
彼はいつも家族の健康を案じている。
He is always worried about his family's health.

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.". "案じる" represents "to be anxious, to worry about, to be concerned about".