Translation guide
A phrase used to introduce a topic or specify the domain in which a statement applies. In Japanese, this is expressed with topic markers, conditional forms, or set phrases rather than a single direct translation.
To say 'regarding X' or 'as for X' when making a general statement about that topic.
A formal pattern meaning 'speaking of N' or 'when it comes to N'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese. N is a noun or noun phrase.
環境問題に関して言えば、日本はまだ改善の余地がある。
When it comes to environmental issues, Japan still has room for improvement.
To say 'when it comes to doing X' or 'in the case of X' to describe what happens in that situation.
A pattern meaning 'when it comes to doing V' or 'if it's a matter of V'. Implies that the situation is somewhat serious or requires consideration. V is a verb in dictionary form.
Both mean 'regarding N', but に関して言えば is more formal and often used in presentations or writing. については is more common in everyday conversation.
給料については後で話しましょう。
Let's talk about the salary later.
料理に関して言えば、彼女は専門家だ。
When it comes to cooking, she's an expert.
A common pattern meaning 'concerning N' or 'as for N'. Slightly less formal than に関して言えば. N is a noun or noun phrase.
お金については、心配しなくていいよ。
When it comes to money, you don't need to worry.
A pattern meaning 'when it comes to N' or 'when the topic turns to N'. Often implies that the speaker has strong feelings or a particular stance on the topic. N is a noun or noun phrase.
彼はサッカーのことになると、急に熱くなる。
When it comes to soccer, he suddenly gets passionate.
A conditional form that can mean 'if it's N' or 'when it comes to N'. Used to single out a topic for comment. N is a noun or noun phrase.
日本料理なら、寿司が一番好きです。
When it comes to Japanese food, I like sushi the best.
A pattern meaning 'speaking of N' or 'when you say N'. Often used to bring up a topic that has just been mentioned or to associate a topic with a typical image. N is a noun or noun phrase.
夏というと、やっぱり海だよね。
When it comes to summer, it's definitely the beach, right?
When it comes to going abroad alone, the preparations are tough.
A pattern meaning 'when it comes to doing V'. Similar to Vとなると but slightly more colloquial. V is a verb in dictionary form.
料理をするのになると、いつも時間がかかってしまう。
When it comes to cooking, I always end up taking a lot of time.
A pattern meaning 'in the case of V' or 'when V'. More neutral and factual than となると. V is a verb in dictionary form or た-form.
緊急の場合は、このボタンを押してください。
When it comes to an emergency, please press this button.
When it comes to performance, this year has improved over last year.
Do not translate 'when it comes to' literally as 来る時 (kuru toki). This means 'when (someone) comes' and is incorrect for this usage.
When it comes to sports, I prefer watching to playing.
決断することになると、彼はとても遅い。
When it comes to making decisions, he's very slow.