by, depending on, due to

Intermediate

25-30 min

very common

Expert Reviewed

Explanation

Indicates agent, means, or cause.

[Noun] + によって/による + [Noun]

この小説は有名な作家によって書かれた。

Kono shousetsu wa yuumei na sakka ni yotte kakareta.

This novel was written by a famous author.

国によって文化が違う。

Kuni ni yotte bunka ga chigau.

Culture differs depending on the country.

Has multiple meanings - context is key.

～によると

according to

～ために (tame ni)

in order to ~, for the purpose of ~

～のに (noni)

although ~, despite ~, even though ~

～にもかかわらず

despite ~, in spite of ~

～ようになる

come to ~, become able to ~, reach the point where ~

Essential for passive sentences and variation.

JLPTBooks Editorial Team

Japanese Language Education Specialists

Last updated: Jan 2

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