Translation and Meaning of: 従って - shitagate

The Japanese word 従って [したがって] is an essential term for those who want to master the language, especially in formal or written contexts. Its main meaning revolves around ideas like "therefore," "consequently," or "in accordance with," but its richness goes beyond a simple translation. In this article, we will explore everything from its origin and correct usage to curiosities that make this expression unique in everyday Japanese.

If you've ever wondered how Japanese people logically connect ideas in speeches or texts, understanding 従って is an important step. Additionally, discovering how to memorize it and apply it in real situations can be the key to sounding more natural in the language. Here at Suki Nihongo, our detailed dictionary helps you uncover these details in a practical way.

Meaning and use of 従って

従って is a conjunction that indicates a logical conclusion or consequence, similar to "therefore." It frequently appears in academic texts, formal documents, and even in more elaborate speeches. Unlike words like だから (which is more colloquial), 従って carries a more serious and structured tone.

An interesting detail is that it often comes at the beginning of sentences to mark a clear transition between ideas. For example, in an argumentative text, you can use it to introduce a conclusion based on previously presented facts. This function makes it indispensable for anyone who wants to write or speak accurately in Japanese.

Origin and composition of kanji

The kanji 従 (ジュウ, したが・う) has ancient roots and carries meanings such as "to follow" or "to obey." When combined with the verb 従う (したがう - to follow, to obey), it becomes clear how 従って has evolved to express consequence or logical alignment. This connection to the idea of "following a line of reasoning" helps to understand why the word is used in formal contexts.

It's worth noting that the kanji 従 also appears in other words such as 従業員 (じゅうぎょういん - employee) or 従来 (じゅうらい - traditional). Although these terms have different meanings, the notion of "following" or "being subordinate" remains as a common thread. This etymological consistency is one of the beauties of Japanese.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to fixate on 従って is to associate it with situations where a conclusion is inevitable. Think of sentences like: "I studied hard, 従って, I passed the exam." This type of construction helps internalize not only the meaning but also the natural position of the word in the sentence. Anki or other spaced repetition systems can be useful for practice.

Another valuable tip is to pay attention to the tone of the context. Since 従って sounds more formal, avoid using it in casual conversations with friends. Instead, opt for it in essays, professional emails, or presentations. Observing its use in newspaper articles or public speeches can also provide a clearer idea of its application.

Curiosities and common mistakes

A common mistake among students is to confuse 従って with だから or それで, which have similar functions but different levels of formality. While だから is casual and versatile, 従って requires a more structured context. Understanding these nuances is crucial to avoid sounding artificial or inappropriate.

Culturally, the precise use of 従って reflects the Japanese appreciation for clarity and hierarchy in communications. In corporate or academic environments, using it correctly demonstrates mastery not only of the language but also of social conventions. It’s one of those details that can make a difference in the impression you convey.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 従い (shitagai) - follow, obey
• したがって (shitagatte) - Therefore, following this
• それに応じて (sore ni oujite) - In response to this, as per
• それに従って (sore ni shitagatte) - Following this, according to this
• それに基づいて (sore ni motozuite) - Based on this, grounded in this
• それに沿って (sore ni sotte) - Throughout this, according to this
• それに則って (sore ni norotte) - Accordingly, following the rules of
• それに従い (sore ni shitagai) - Following this, complying with this
• それに従えば (sore ni shitagai ba) - By following this, by obeying this
• それに従うと (sore ni shitagau to) - If you follow this, considering this
• それに従わねば (sore ni shitagawaneba) - It is necessary to follow this, one must obey.
• それに従わなければ (sore ni shitagawanakereba) - If you don't follow this, if you don't obey
• それに従いまして (sore ni shitagaimashite) - Following this, in a polite manner
• それに従いましょう (sore ni shitagaimashou) - Let's follow this, suggesting to follow
• それに従いました (sore ni shitagaimashita) - I followed this, I obeyed this
• それに従いません (sore ni shitagaimasen) - I don't follow this, I don't obey this.
• それに従わないと (sore ni shitagawanai to) - If you do not follow this, if you do not obey this
• それに従わない場合 (sore ni shitagawanai baai) - If you do not follow this, if you do not obey
• それに従わなければならない (sore ni shitagawanakereba naranai) - This needs to be followed.
• それに従わなければいけない (sore ni shitagawanakereba ikenai) - It is necessary to follow this.

従って

Romaji: shitagate
Kana: したがって
Type: adverb
L: jlpt-n3, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: therefore; consequently; according to

Meaning in English: therefore;consequently;in accordance with

Definition: Therefore: Follow the words and actions of others. seguirl.

Example Sentences - (従って) shitagate

See below some example sentences:

従って行動することが大切です。

Juntatte koudou suru koto ga taisetsu desu

It's important to act accordingly.

So it's important to act.

• 従って - it means "consequently" or "according to".
• 行動する - means "to act" or "to behave".
• こと - it is a noun that indicates action or event.
• が - It is a particle that indicates the subject of the sentence.
• 大切 - It means "important" or "valuable".
• です - is a polite way of saying "ser" or "estar".

直感に従って行動することが大切です。

Chokkan ni shitagatte koudou suru koto ga taisetsu desu

It is important to act on intuition.

• 直感 (chokkan) - intuition
• に従って (ni shitagatte) - seguindo
• 行動する (koudou suru) - Act
• ことが (koto ga) - is important
• 大切です (taisetsu desu) - to be valuable