Translation guide
The English word "connections" can refer to physical links, personal relationships, or logical associations. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on the intended meaning.
Referring to people you know who can help you, especially in business or social contexts.
A common loanword from English, used specifically for personal connections that provide advantages, such as in job hunting or business. Often implies using influence.
彼はコネでその仕事に就いた。
He got the job through connections.
Refers to one's network of personal contacts, especially in professional settings. More formal than コネ.
人脈を広げるために交流会に参加した。
I attended a networking event to expand my connections.
Refers to connections through family or personal relationships, often used in the context of favoritism or nepotism.
縁故採用は公平ではない。
Hiring through connections is not fair.
An informal term for a personal connection or intermediary who can introduce you or help you. Often used in phrases like つてを頼る (rely on connections).
つてを頼って仕事を探している。
I'm looking for a job through connections.
Describing things that are joined together, such as wires, pipes, or ideas.
General term for connection, especially in technical contexts like computers, networks, or transportation.
インターネットの接続が遅い。
The internet connection is slow.
この電車は新幹線に接続しています。
This train connects to the Shinkansen.
Refers to physical coupling or linking, such as train cars or mechanical parts.
A more abstract or emotional connection between people, events, or ideas. Can also be used for physical connections in a less technical sense.
Referring to changing from one vehicle or route to another.
The standard term for transferring between trains, buses, etc.
次の駅で乗り換えてください。
Please change trains at the next station.
Used in schedules to indicate a connection between services, e.g., a bus that meets a train.
コネ is specifically for personal connections that give an unfair or special advantage. It can sound negative or too casual in formal contexts. For general networks, use 人脈.
彼はコネで入社したらしい。
It seems he joined the company through connections.
接続 is used for abstract or electronic connections (internet, trains, ideas), while 連結 is for physical linking of objects (train cars, pipes).
車両を連結する。
To connect train cars.
人とのつながりを大切にしたい。
I want to value connections with people.
これらの事件にはつながりがある。
There is a connection between these incidents.
このバスは電車に接続しています。
This bus connects with the train.