によるBy, due to, or depending on—before a noun
による places a relationship before a noun. It can show what causes a difference, what method is used, what causes a result, or who is responsible for an action or work.
Read the relationship from the nouns
による does not identify one fixed relationship by itself. Look at the two nouns and ask: what varies, what method is used, what caused the result, or who carried out the work?
Four common relationships
Swipe sideways to compare every column.
| Relationship | Question to ask | Role of the following noun |
|---|---|---|
| Variation | What factor makes it differ? | Names the difference, variation, or change. |
| Means | By what method or tool is it done? | Names the action or process performed by that means. |
| Cause | Because of what did the result occur? | Names the resulting delay, damage, cancellation, or other event. |
| Responsible doer | By whom was the work carried out? | Names an action or work such as a survey, study, design, or report. |
More examples
地域による利用料金の違いを比較しました。
We compared the differences in usage fees by region.
AnalyzeVariation. Unpacked as a clause: 地域によって利用料金が違います。
新しい装置による検査は、従来より短時間で終わります。
Inspection using the new equipment takes less time than the conventional method.
AnalyzeMeans. Unpacked as a clause: 新しい装置によって検査します。
強風による欠航が相次いでいます。
Flights are being canceled one after another because of strong winds.
AnalyzeCause. Unpacked as a clause: 強風によって便が欠航しました。
専門家による調査で、安全性が確認されました。
A survey conducted by specialists confirmed its safety.
AnalyzeResponsible doer. Unpacked as a passive clause: 専門家によって調査が行われました。