Translation guide
How to express the idea of spending time with someone, accompanying them, or being in a romantic relationship, depending on the context.
To be with someone so they are not alone, often in a social or supportive way.
The most natural and common way to say 'be with someone' or 'keep someone company' in a general sense.
Could you keep me company for a bit?
He's always alone, so I keep him company sometimes.
Means to accompany or go along with someone, often for a specific activity. Can also mean dating, so context is important.
Can also mean 'date' or 'go out with' romantically. Use with care.
Will you keep me company while I shop?
He kept me company on my walk.
A humble and formal way to say 'accompany' someone of higher status. Used in business or very polite contexts.
I accompanied the company president and attended the meeting.
To be dating or in a romantic partnership with someone.
The standard way to say 'are dating' or 'are in a relationship'. The continuous form indicates an ongoing romantic involvement.
I'm keeping company with her. / I'm dating her.
Are those two keeping company? / Are they dating?
A more formal term for 'dating' or 'being in a relationship', often used in official contexts or when discussing marriage prospects.
I'm seriously keeping company with him. / We are in a serious relationship.
Explicitly states 'dating as lovers', useful when clarifying the nature of the relationship.
To go with someone to a specific location or function.
To stay with someone while they engage in an activity, often to provide comfort or assistance.
Literally 'be by one's side', this conveys emotional support and presence.
If you're scared, I'll keep you company.
Specifically means 'to be someone's conversation partner', keeping them company through talking.
Will you keep my grandmother company (by talking with her)?
The English phrase 'keep company' does not have a single direct equivalent in Japanese. Translating it word-for-word (e.g., 会社を保つ) would be nonsensical. Always choose an expression based on the intended meaning: accompaniment, dating, or emotional support.
付き合う often implies a specific activity or purpose, and can mean dating. 一緒にいる is more about simply being together without a specific goal. Use 一緒にいる for general companionship.
I just want to keep you company. / I just want to be with you.
Come keep me company while I shop.
I don't want to just keep company as friends; I want to date you.