Translation guide
The English phrase "depend on" has several distinct meanings. This guide breaks them down into practical uses and provides natural Japanese equivalents for each.
To rely on someone or something for support, help, or trust.
The most common verb for relying on someone or something. Often used for emotional or practical support.
困ったときは友達に頼る。
I depend on my friends when I'm in trouble.
A common phrase meaning to count on or rely on someone/something. Slightly more emphatic than 頼る.
彼を頼りにしている。
I'm depending on him.
A formal or technical term for dependence, often used in economic, psychological, or systemic contexts. Can imply over-reliance.
その国は石油に依存している。
That country depends on oil.
To be decided or influenced by something else.
The most natural way to say 'it depends on...'. Used to indicate that something varies according to circumstances.
明日の天気による。
It depends on tomorrow's weather.
値段は季節によります。
The price depends on the season.
Means 'it depends on...' or 'it's up to...'. Often used when the outcome is contingent on a specific factor.
成功は努力次第だ。
Success depends on your effort.
Literally 'changes depending on...'. A clear and common way to express variability.
人によって考え方が変わる。
The way of thinking depends on the person.
To need something essential for living, or to be financially supported by someone.
Used when someone depends on something/someone for survival or livelihood.
彼は親に頼って生きている。
He depends on his parents to live.
Specifically means being financially supported or provided for by someone.
彼女は夫に養われている。
She depends on her husband for support.
To be sure that someone will act in a certain way, or that something will happen.
To count on or bank on something happening. Often used for expectations.
彼の助けを当てにしている。
I'm depending on his help.
To trust or have confidence in someone/something. Stronger than 頼る, implies reliability.
私は彼の判断を信頼している。
I depend on his judgment.
Do not translate 'depend on' word-for-word as '依存する' in casual contexts. It often sounds overly formal or implies unhealthy dependence. Use 頼る or 〜による instead.
Both mean 'it depends on', but 〜次第だ emphasizes that the outcome is entirely up to the factor mentioned, while 〜による is more neutral and widely used.
状況によります。
It depends on the situation.
私を頼りにしていいよ。
You can depend on me.