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.
鎖をつなぐ。
Connect the chains.
手をつないで歩いた。
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.
ケーブルをパソコンに接続してください。
Please connect the cable to the computer.
Used for coupling or linking vehicles, train cars, or mechanical parts. More specific than つなぐ.
列車を連結する。
Connect the train cars.
To show a relationship or association between abstract things.
To tie together ideas, evidence, or concepts. Emphasizes creating a logical link.
証拠を事件と結びつける。
Connect the evidence to the case.
二つの出来事は密接に結びついている。
The two events are closely connected.
Casual equivalent of つなぐ, also used for linking ideas or stories. Transitive.
To form a bond or get along well with someone.
To have a mutual understanding or emotional connection. Describes a deep, natural bond.
彼とは心が通じ合っている。
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.
地域とのつながりを感じる。
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.
Wi-Fiに接続できません。
I can't connect to Wi-Fi.
この電車は新幹線に接続しています。
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.
サイトにアクセスする。
Connect to the site.
To put a caller through to another person or line.
Used for connecting a phone call. Often in the form おつなぎします (polite).
担当者におつなぎします。
I'll connect you to the person in charge.
Explicit phrase for connecting a phone call.
外線につなぎます。
I'll connect you to an outside 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.
手をつなぐ (○) / 手を接続する (✕)
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.
To associate or relate one thing to another. Common in academic or analytical contexts.
データを理論に関連づける。
Connect the data to the theory.
話をつなげてください。
Please connect the stories (make them flow).
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.