Translation guide
This English phrase is used to indicate that something follows a rule, law, request, or standard. In Japanese, the most natural equivalent depends on whether you are following a formal regulation, a personal request, or a general principle. Direct translations exist but are often replaced by context-appropriate particles or set phrases.
To express that an action is taken in compliance with an official rule, law, or established standard.
Used when following rules, instructions, or orders. It implies a direct adherence to what has been set forth.
法律に従って行動する。
Act in accordance with the law.
We will process it in accordance with the regulations.
Used when something is based on a rule, fact, or principle. It emphasizes the foundation or source.
この判断は法律に基づいています。
This decision is in accordance with the law.
Formal and often used in legal or official contexts. Similar to に従って but more rigid.
規則に則って手続きを進める。
Proceed with the procedure in accordance with the rules.
To express that an action is taken in compliance with someone's request, wish, or expectation.
Used when responding to a request, demand, or need. It implies flexibility and adaptation.
お客様のご要望に応じて、特別メニューをご用意します。
In accordance with your request, we will prepare a special menu.
Used when following a plan, policy, or guideline. It suggests alignment with a direction or intention.
会社の方針に沿って行動してください。
Please act in accordance with company policy.
Used when following instructions exactly as given. Often used in casual or spoken contexts.
説明書の通りに組み立ててください。
Please assemble it in accordance with the instructions.
To express that something changes or is determined in accordance with a variable factor.
Also used for proportional relationships. Indicates that something varies according to conditions.
収入に応じて税金が決まります。
Tax is determined in accordance with income.
Used when the outcome depends on something. Often implies a conditional relationship.
努力次第で結果は変わります。
Results change in accordance with your effort.
に従って emphasizes following a rule or order directly, while に基づいて emphasizes that something is based on a rule or fact. For example, 法律に従って行動する (act in accordance with the law) focuses on compliance, whereas 法律に基づいて判断する (judge based on the law) focuses on the foundation of the judgment.
The English phrase 'in accordance with' is often used in formal writing, but directly translating it into Japanese can sound unnatural. Instead, choose the appropriate pattern based on context. For instance, 'in accordance with your request' is naturally ご要望に応じて, not a word-for-word rendering.