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?
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.
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.
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.
He kept me company on my walk.
I'm seriously keeping company with him. / We are in a serious relationship.
I don't want to just keep company as friends; I want to date you.
I'll keep you company to the hospital.
Will you keep my grandmother company (by talking with her)?