Japanese grammar
What does ～につれて mean? Japanese grammar N2
～につれて means the more… the more…; along with (a gradual, natural change).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N2 |
|---|---|
| Structure | 動詞 辞書形 + につれて N + につれて |
| Romaji | nitsurete |
| Meaning | the more… the more…; along with (a gradual, natural change) |
Forming it
| Noun | 時間の経過 + につれて |
|---|---|
| Verb | 年をとる + につれて |
How to use it
States that B changes GRADUALLY, naturally in step as A changes gradually; both vary continuously.
- 「～につれて」 = "as A changes GRADUALLY, B also changes gradually along with it". Both clauses involve CONTINUOUS, natural change.
- The second clause does NOT use volition/commands (since it's a natural change).
- Close to 「に伴って／に従って」; 「につれて」 emphasizes gradual, parallel progression, not used for a single event.
Examples
年をとるにつれて、体力が落ちてきた。
As one gets older, physical strength declines.
時間がたつにつれて、痛みは和らいだ。
As time passed, the pain eased.
Keep in mind
- Verb dictionary form or a noun indicating change.
- Both clauses involve continuous change.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong大きくなるにつれて、片付けなさい。
The more one grows up, the more one must tidy up on one’s own.
Correct大きくなるにつれて、自立していった。
「につれて」 states NATURAL change; the second clause does not use commands/volition.
-
Wrong卒業するにつれて、就職した。
Along with graduating, I started working.
Correct卒業に伴って、就職した。
A SINGLE event uses 「に伴って」; 「につれて」 is reserved for continuous gradual change.
Exam tips
- 「につれて」 = along with gradual (natural) change; the second clause has no commands/volition.