に応じて
Depending or based on, According to, In response to, Suitable for or to
Structure
Noun + に応じた + Noun
Explanation
The grammar point に応じて is created from the particle に and the て-form of the verb 応じる, meaning 'to suit' or 'to respond to'. It expresses the idea that B happens 'in accordance with A' or 'in a way that is appropriate for A'. This often carries the meaning of 'depending on' or 'in proportion to'. Essentially, the action in B is adjusted to fit the circumstances described in A.
に応じて always follows a noun. When used to describe another noun directly, it changes to the form に応じた.
- 年齢に応じて、薬の量を変えてください。Please adjust the dosage of the medicine according to the age.
- 注文の数に応じて、割引があります。A discount is available depending on the quantity ordered.
- その場の状況に応じた判断が求められます。You are expected to make a decision that is appropriate for the situation on the spot.
Fun-fact
The verb 応じる inherently suggests a 'reaction' or 'adaptation' to a specific set of circumstances. Because of this nuance, the outcome in (B) often changes proportionally with the degree or scale of (A). For instance, a bigger problem might require a bigger solution.
Examples
税金は所得に応じて変わります。
The amount of tax you pay changes depending on your income.
お客様のご要望に応じたサービスをご提供します。
We provide services tailored to our customers' requests.
天候に応じた服装でお越しください。
Please come dressed in attire appropriate for the weather.
先生は生徒のレベルに応じて、教え方を変えている。
The teacher changes their teaching method depending on the student's level.
注文に応じて、製品を生産しています。
We manufacture our products in response to orders.
医者は患者の症状に応じて、薬の量を調節した。
The doctor adjusted the medicine's dosage according to the patient's symptoms.
予算に応じた旅行プランを立てましょう。
Let's make a travel plan that is suitable for our budget.
営業マンは販売実績に応じた歩合給が支払われる。
Salespeople are paid a commission based on their sales performance.
係員の指示に応じて、速やかに避難してください。
Please evacuate promptly in accordance with the staff's instructions.
塩とこしょうの量は、お好みに応じて調節できます。
You can adjust the amount of salt and pepper to suit your taste.
新入社員は本人の適性に応じて、配属先が決まります。
New employees are assigned to their departments based on their individual aptitude.
参加者には、その順位に応じた賞品が贈られます。
Participants will be given a prize corresponding to their rank.