Translation guide
The English verb 'connect' covers physical joining, linking ideas, establishing relationships, and joining networks. Japanese uses different verbs depending on what is being connected and how.
To attach, fasten, or link two or more physical objects together.
General verb for physically connecting things, like linking chains, holding hands, or joining train cars. Transitive.
Connect the chains.
We walked holding hands (lit. connecting hands).
Formal/technical term for connecting devices, cables, or transport links. Often used for physical connections in engineering or IT.
Please connect the cable to the computer.
Used for coupling or linking vehicles, train cars, or mechanical parts. More specific than つなぐ.
Connect the train cars.
To show a relationship or association between abstract things.
To form a bond or get along well with someone.
To have a mutual understanding or emotional connection. Describes a deep, natural bond.
I feel connected to him (we understand each other).
To feel a connection or bond. More general than 心が通じ合う, can be used for groups or communities.
I feel connected to the local community.
Literary or romantic nuance of being bound or connected by fate or deep ties.
To link to the internet, a phone line, or a transportation network.
Standard term for connecting to the internet, Wi-Fi, or a network. Also used for transport connections.
I can't connect to Wi-Fi.
This train connects to the Shinkansen.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to be connected'. Often used for internet or phone connections in casual speech.
To access or connect to a website, server, or online service. Loanword from English.
Connect to the site.
To put a caller through to another person or line.
つなぐ is a general, everyday verb for physical and abstract connections. 接続する is more formal and technical, used for devices, networks, and transport schedules. For internet connection, both are common, but 接続する sounds slightly more formal.
Hold hands (つなぐ is correct; 接続する is unnatural)
Saying 人とコネクトする is understood but sounds like English-influenced slang. Use 心が通じ合う or つながりを感じる for emotional bonds, or simply 仲がいい (get along well) for friendships.
The two events are closely connected.
To associate or relate one thing to another. Common in academic or analytical contexts.
Connect the data to the theory.
話をつなげてください。
Please connect the stories (make them flow).
二人は強い絆で結ばれている。
They are connected by a strong bond.
インターネットにつながらない。
I can't connect to the internet.