Translation guide
The English phrase "depend on" has several distinct meanings. This guide breaks them down into practical uses and provides natural Japanese equivalents for each.
To rely on someone or something for support, help, or trust.
The most common verb for relying on someone or something. Often used for emotional or practical support.
I depend on my friends when I'm in trouble.
A common phrase meaning to count on or rely on someone/something. Slightly more emphatic than 頼る.
I'm depending on him.
A formal or technical term for dependence, often used in economic, psychological, or systemic contexts. Can imply over-reliance.
That country depends on oil.
To be decided or influenced by something else.
The most natural way to say 'it depends on...'. Used to indicate that something varies according to circumstances.
It depends on tomorrow's weather.
The price depends on the season.
Means 'it depends on...' or 'it's up to...'. Often used when the outcome is contingent on a specific factor.
Success depends on your effort.
Literally 'changes depending on...'. A clear and common way to express variability.
The way of thinking depends on the person.
To need something essential for living, or to be financially supported by someone.
Used when someone depends on something/someone for survival or livelihood.
He depends on his parents to live.
Specifically means being financially supported or provided for by someone.
She depends on her husband for support.
To be sure that someone will act in a certain way, or that something will happen.
Do not translate 'depend on' word-for-word as '依存する' in casual contexts. It often sounds overly formal or implies unhealthy dependence. Use 頼る or 〜による instead.
Both mean 'it depends on', but 〜次第だ emphasizes that the outcome is entirely up to the factor mentioned, while 〜による is more neutral and widely used.
It depends on the situation.
You can depend on me.