と共に
Together with, At the same time, As well as
Structure
［い］Adjective + と共に
［な］Adjective + である + と共に
Noun + と共に
Explanation
The noun 共 in Japanese often functions as either a prefix or a suffix. When combined with the case marking particle と to form と共に, it acts as an adverb. と共に indicates that something (A) occurs 'alongside (B)' or 'simultaneously with (B)'.
This grammar point can be attached to verbs, い-Adjectives, な-Adjectives, and nouns. When used with a な-Adjective, it is often preceded by である.
- 春が来ると共に、花が咲き始める。As spring arrives, the flowers begin to bloom.
- この本は難しいが、難しいと共に面白い。While this book is difficult, it's also quite interesting.
- この仕事は大変であると共に、やりがいがある。This job is tough, but it's also very rewarding.
- 家族と共に旅行に行きたいです。I want to go on a trip together with my family.
Fun Fact
The essence of と共に is that two states or actions co-exist. It can show that two actions are happening in tandem, or that two different qualities describe the same person or thing. Due to this nuance, one of the most direct translations of と共に is 'simultaneously with (A)', where (A) can be an action, quality, or noun.
- 経験を積むと共に、自信がついてきた。As I gained experience, I started to feel more confident.
- このレストランは有名であると共に、値段も高い。This restaurant is famous and expensive at the same time.
Examples
家族と共に夕食を食べた。
I ate dinner together with my family.
彼女は親友と共に新しいビジネスを始めた。
She started a new business with her best friend.
彼は希望と共に不安も抱えていた。
He was filled with hope, as well as some anxiety.
技術の進歩と共に、社会は大きく変化した。
Society has changed dramatically along with the advancement of technology.
音楽が流れ出すと共に、会場は静かになった。
The venue became quiet as the music began to play.
この料理は美味しいと共に、見た目も美しい。
This dish is delicious, as well as beautiful to look at.
子どもの成長は、喜びであると共に、少し寂しくもある。
A child's growth is a joyous thing, but at the same time, it is also a little sad.
経験を積むと共に、自信がついてきた。
As I gained more experience, I became more confident.
彼は医者であると共に、有名な小説家でもある。
He is a doctor, as well as being a famous novelist.
嵐と共に、激しい雨が降り始めた。
Heavy rain began to fall along with the storm.
チームの皆と共にこの勝利を分かち合いたい。
I want to share this victory together with everyone on the team.
都市への人口集中と共に、様々な問題が生じている。
Various problems are arising in conjunction with the concentration of population in cities.