Translation guide
This phrase is used to indicate that something varies or is conditional based on circumstances. In Japanese, it is often expressed with conditional forms or set phrases rather than a single word.
Expressing that something changes or is decided based on the circumstances
A common and natural way to say 'it depends on the situation'. Literally 'depends on the case'.
行くかどうかは場合によります。
Whether I go or not depends on the situation.
Embedding the condition directly in a sentence using 'if' or 'when' structures
A versatile pattern meaning 'differs depending on ~'. Attach to a noun or situation.
人によって考え方が違います。
Ways of thinking differ depending on the person.
Informal ways to say 'it depends' in conversation
Casual version of 場合による, with けど softening the statement.
場合によるけど、多分行けると思う。
It depends on the situation, but I think I can probably go.
Similar to 場合による, but uses 'situation/circumstances' explicitly. Slightly more formal.
その判断は状況によります。
That decision depends on the situation.
Emphasizes that it depends on both the time and the situation. Often used when the outcome is highly variable.
時と場合によりますね。
It depends on the time and situation, you know.
The response differs depending on the situation.
Means 'depends on ~'. Often used in formal or written contexts. Attach to a noun.
成功は努力次第です。
Success depends on your effort.
The basic conditional form. Can be used to express 'if/when X, then Y' where Y varies.
雨が降ったら中止です。
If it rains, it will be canceled (depending on the situation).
A short, casual way to say 'depends on the situation'. Often used as a standalone response.
状況次第かな。
Depends on the situation, I guess.