This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

Home
Learn
Japanese
Vocabulary
~によって

A2 particle #100 most common 9 min read

~によって

By; due to; depending on; through.

ni yotte Top 100

At the A1 level, you are just beginning to learn how to connect basic ideas. While ~によって is technically an A2/N3 grammar point, you might encounter its simplest form: 人によって (depending on the person). At this stage, think of it as a set phrase. You don't need to worry about the complex passive voice or academic causality yet. Just remember that if you want to say 'everyone is different,' you can say 人によって違います. This is a very useful phrase for avoiding generalizations. You might also see it on signs in Japan, like 'Created by...' followed by a name. Don't try to use it in your own sentences too much yet; focus on the particle で for 'by' (like 'by bus' or 'with a pen'). This level is about recognition and using a few fixed expressions to sound more natural when talking about differences.

At the A2 level, you start to use ~によって to express 'depending on' and simple 'due to' relationships. This is where you learn that things aren't always the same. For example, 国によって文化が違います (Culture differs depending on the country). You also begin to see it in formal announcements, like at a train station where they say a train is late due to snow (雪によって). At this level, you should practice using ~によって followed by 違います (differs) or 様々です (is various). You are also introduced to the passive voice, and you'll learn that when a famous person did something, we use ~によって instead of に. For example, 'This song was written by...'. It makes your Japanese sound more objective and mature. Focus on these three clear uses: variation, simple cause, and famous agents.

At the B1 level, ~によって becomes a vital tool for academic and professional writing. You are expected to distinguish between ~によって (adverbial) and ~による (adjectival). For example, knowing when to say 不注意によって事故が起きた versus 不注意による事故. You also start using it to describe 'means' or 'methods' in a more formal way than the particle で. Instead of just saying 'I used the internet,' you say 'Through the use of the internet, I gathered information.' This level requires you to understand the logical flow of a sentence. You will also encounter ~によっては, which means 'depending on the case, some...' (e.g., 'Depending on the day, it might be closed'). This adds a layer of precision to your speech, allowing you to discuss exceptions and specific conditions. You should be comfortable using this in short essays or during formal presentations.

At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of all the nuances of ~によって. You can use it fluently to describe complex causal chains and scientific processes. You understand that ~によって is the standard for formal reporting and academic papers. You also begin to recognize the literary variant ~により and can use it appropriately in written reports or formal speeches. At this stage, you are expected to avoid common pitfalls, such as using ~によって for personal motives or simple physical actions where で is more natural. You can also use the passive voice with ~によって to describe historical developments or social changes. Your ability to use this particle correctly in a variety of registers—from semi-formal conversation to highly formal writing—is a key indicator of your advanced intermediate proficiency. You can also explain the difference between ~によって and similar structures like ~を通じて or ~に基づいて.

At the C1 level, ~によって is used with complete precision and stylistic awareness. You can use it to structure complex arguments, where it serves as a logical connector that defines the parameters of your discussion. You are aware of the subtle differences in tone between ~によって, ~により, and ~によるものだ. You can use it in legal, medical, or highly technical contexts where the exact nature of causality and agency is paramount. For example, in a legal context, you might use it to define liability or the source of a regulation. You also understand its role in classical-influenced modern Japanese and can read texts where the usage might be slightly more archaic or formal. Your use of ~によっては allows you to handle complex hypothetical scenarios with ease. At this level, the particle is no longer a 'grammar point' to be studied, but a flexible tool for sophisticated expression and rhetorical strategy.

At the C2 level, your mastery of ~によって is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You use it instinctively to create professional, academic, and literary prose. You can navigate the most dense technical manuals or philosophical treatises where ~によって is used to weave together intricate webs of cause and effect. You are also sensitive to the rhythmic and stylistic impact of using ~により versus ~によって in a long sentence, choosing the one that best fits the flow of your discourse. You can use the structure to express abstract concepts, such as 'The self is defined by its relationship to others.' Your command of the particle allows you to express the highest levels of nuance, including irony or emphasis, by manipulating the expected structures. You are also capable of identifying and correcting subtle misuses of the particle in the writing of others, demonstrating a deep, intuitive understanding of Japanese syntax and logic.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

~によって in 30 Seconds

Used to identify the agent in formal passive sentences (e.g., 'written by').
Indicates a cause or reason for a result (e.g., 'due to the rain').
Describes the means or method of achieving something (e.g., 'through research').
Expresses variation or dependency when paired with 'chigau' (e.g., 'depends on the person').

The Japanese grammatical construction ~によって (ni yotte) is a multi-functional particle phrase that serves as a cornerstone for intermediate Japanese communication. It is primarily used to express the agent of an action in passive sentences, the cause or reason for a situation, the means or method by which something is achieved, and the basis for variation or dependency. For English speakers, it most closely translates to "by," "due to," "through," or "depending on," depending entirely on the context of the sentence. Understanding this particle is crucial because it allows speakers to move beyond simple subject-verb-object structures and into more nuanced descriptions of causality and agency.

Agent in Passive Voice: In formal or written Japanese, when an action is performed by a specific person (often a famous creator or historical figure), ~によって identifies that person as the agent. For example, "This book was written by Soseki."
Cause and Reason: It indicates a cause that leads to a specific result, often used for natural disasters or significant events. "The building was destroyed due to the earthquake."
Means and Method: It describes the tool or method used to accomplish a task. This is more formal than the simple particle で. "We solved the problem through discussion."
Variation and Dependency: When followed by words like 違う (chigau - to differ) or 様々 (samazama - various), it indicates that something changes depending on the noun. "Customs differ by country."

この建物は有名な建築家によって設計されました。
(This building was designed by a famous architect.)

In daily life, you will encounter ~によって in news broadcasts, academic papers, and professional emails. It carries a level of formality that makes it unsuitable for very casual conversations with close friends, where particles like で or から might be preferred. However, the "depending on" usage (e.g., 人によって) is quite common even in semi-formal speech. Mastery of this particle signals to Japanese speakers that you have reached a level of proficiency where you can describe complex relationships between ideas, moving from the 'what' to the 'how' and 'why' of the world around you. It is a bridge to the JLPT N3 and N2 levels, where logical connectors become the primary focus of study.

不注意によって事故が起きました。
(An accident occurred due to carelessness.)

インターネットによって、世界中の情報が手に入ります。
(Through the internet, information from all over the world is available.)

人によって考え方が違います。
(Ways of thinking differ depending on the person.)

In summary, ~によって is a versatile tool that allows you to specify agency, causality, methodology, and variability. Its presence in a sentence usually indicates a higher level of precision and formality, making it an essential addition to any Japanese learner's toolkit as they progress toward fluency.

Using ~によって correctly requires understanding its grammatical placement and the four distinct ways it functions within a sentence. It is always preceded by a noun. Unlike some other particles that can follow verbs or adjectives directly, ~によって strictly attaches to nouns or nominalized phrases. If you need to use a verb, you must first turn it into a noun using こと or の.

Structure 1: Noun + によって + Verb: This is the most common pattern. The verb at the end determines the specific meaning. If the verb is passive, ~によって indicates the agent. If the verb describes a result, it indicates the cause. If the verb describes a difference, it indicates the basis for that difference.
Structure 2: Noun + による + Noun: When you want to use the "due to" or "by" meaning to modify another noun directly, you must change によって to による. For example, "地震による被害" (Damage caused by the earthquake).
Structure 3: Noun + によっては: Adding the particle は creates a focus on a specific case within a range of possibilities. It often translates to "In some cases, depending on..." or "For some [noun]..." For example, "人によっては" (For some people / Depending on the person).

話し合いによって、問題を解決しました。
(We solved the problem through discussion.)

When using ~によって to mean "depending on," it is frequently paired with verbs like 異なる (kotonaru - to differ), 違う (chigau - to be different), or 決まる (kimaru - to be decided). This usage is vital for expressing relativity in Japanese culture, where context often dictates behavior and speech.

国によって習慣が異なります。
(Customs differ depending on the country.)

To master this, practice converting simple sentences. Instead of saying "The rain made me late" (雨で遅れました), try the more formal "I was late due to the rain" (雨によって遅れました). This transition from the particle で to によって is a hallmark of advancing from basic to intermediate Japanese proficiency.

The particle ~によって is ubiquitous in formal and semi-formal Japanese environments. While you might not hear it constantly in a casual conversation between teenagers at a cafe, it is the standard for professional, academic, and journalistic communication. If you turn on the NHK news, you will hear it within minutes, usually describing the causes of events or the means by which a new policy is being implemented.

In News and Journalism: Reporters use ~によって to maintain objectivity. Instead of saying "The storm broke the bridge," they say "The bridge was damaged by the storm." This passive construction with ~によって is the gold standard for reporting facts.
In Academic and Technical Writing: When describing scientific processes or historical events, ~によって is used to define causality and methodology. "The experiment was conducted by means of a new technique."
In Business Settings: During presentations or in emails, it is used to explain results. "Sales increased due to the new marketing strategy." It sounds much more professional than using the casual から or で.

最新の技術によって、このロボットは作られました。
(This robot was made using the latest technology.)

You will also see it frequently in museums and on historical markers. When a plaque describes who built a temple or who painted a masterpiece, ~によって is the phrase used to attribute the work. For example, "Built by the Tokugawa Shogunate." This usage reinforces the idea of agency and importance.

Even in popular media like anime or manga, characters who speak in a formal or intellectual manner (such as teachers, scientists, or noble characters) will use ~によって to explain their reasoning or the mechanics of a situation. It adds a layer of authority and clarity to their speech. For a learner, recognizing this particle in these contexts is a sign that you are successfully tuning into the formal register of the Japanese language.

While ~によって is a powerful tool, it is also a common source of errors for Japanese learners. The most frequent mistakes involve overusing it in casual settings, confusing it with similar-sounding particles, or failing to switch to ~による when modifying a noun. Understanding these pitfalls will help you sound more natural and precise.

Mistake 1: Over-formality in Casual Speech: Using ~によって when talking to friends about everyday things can sound unnaturally stiff. For example, saying "I went to the store by means of a bike" using ~によって sounds like a police report. In casual conversation, use で (自転車で).
Mistake 2: Confusing with ~にとって: This is the most common phonetic mistake. ~によって means "by/due to," while ~にとって means "for/from the perspective of." Saying "This is important by me" (私によって大切) is incorrect; it should be "This is important for me" (私にとって大切).
Mistake 3: Forgetting the ~による Form: Learners often use ~によって to modify a noun directly, which is grammatically incorrect. You cannot say "台風によって被害" (damage by typhoon) as a noun phrase; you must use 台風による被害.

❌ 私によって、日本料理は美味しいです。
✅ 私にとって、日本料理は美味しいです。
(To me, Japanese food is delicious.)

Another subtle mistake is using ~によって for a direct physical cause that has a simple result. If you tripped because of a stone, 石で is better. ~によって implies a more complex or significant causal relationship. It is also important to remember that ~によって should not be used to express a personal motive or reason for an intentional action. For example, "I went to Japan due to wanting to study" is better expressed with ために or から.

Finally, ensure that when using the "depending on" meaning, you include a word that indicates variation at the end of the sentence. Without words like 違う or 様々, the sentence often feels incomplete or confusing to a native speaker.

Japanese has several ways to express causality, agency, and means. Choosing between ~によって and its alternatives depends on the level of formality and the specific nuance you wish to convey. Here is a comparison with the most common similar expressions.

~によって vs. ~で (Means/Cause): で is the everyday, versatile particle for means and simple causes. ~によって is formal and implies a more significant or systematic relationship. Use で for "by bus" and ~によって for "through technological innovation."
~によって vs. ~に (Passive Agent): In passive sentences, に is used for general agents (people, animals). ~によって is specifically used for the creators of works or inventors of things. "Scolded by mom" uses に; "Written by Shakespeare" uses ~によって.
~によって vs. ~を通じて / ~を介して (Through): ~を通じて (wo tsuujite) implies a medium or a period of time. It is used when something happens "throughout" or "via" a channel. ~によって is more direct about the method being the cause of the result.
~によって vs. ~に従って (According to): ~に従って (ni shitagatte) means following a rule, a plan, or a changing situation. ~によって (depending on) is about variation based on a category, not necessarily following a sequence.

比較：
1. バスで行く (Go by bus - Casual/Normal)
2. 努力によって成功する (Succeed through effort - Formal/Strong)

Understanding these distinctions helps you navigate the "formality ladder" of Japanese. Using ~によって appropriately shows that you are not just translating English "by" or "from" in your head, but that you are selecting the specific Japanese tool that fits the context of agency, causality, or variation.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"本件は、慎重な調査によって解明されました。"

Neutral

"人によって考え方が違いますね。"

Informal

"場合によっては、行けないかも。"

Child friendly

"人によって、好きな色は違うよ。"

Slang

"それ、人によるっしょ。"

Fun Fact

The kanji 依 (yo) contains the 'person' radical, suggesting a person leaning on something for support, which fits the 'depending on' meaning perfectly.

Pronunciation Guide

UK ni jotte

US ni jotte

The stress is relatively flat, but a slight emphasis on 'yo' is common.

Rhymes With

もって (motte) とって (totte) よって (yotte) まって (matte) いって (itte) きって (kitte) はって (hatte) のって (notte)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'ni yote' (missing the double 't' stop).
Confusing the sound with 'ni totte'.
Pronouncing 'ni' like 'nye'.
Stretching the 'o' into an 'oh' sound.
Failing to pronounce the 'e' at the end clearly.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in text once you know the pattern.

Writing 4/5

Requires understanding the difference between ~によって and ~による.

Speaking 4/5

Hard to remember to use it instead of 'de' in formal situations.

Listening 3/5

Can be confused with 'ni totte' if listening quickly.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

で (particle) に (particle) 違う (verb) 受身形 (passive voice) 原因 (noun)

Learn Next

〜を通じて〜に基づいて〜に従って〜に際して〜にあたって

Advanced

〜ゆえに〜んがために〜に即して〜を機に

Grammar to Know

Passive Voice (Agent)

この本は夏目漱石によって書かれた。

Noun Modification (~による)

地震による被害。

Formal Causality

不注意によって火事になった。

Variation with 違う/異なる

人によって意見が異なる。

Conditional focus (~によっては)

場合によっては中止する。

Examples by Level

人によって違います。

It differs depending on the person.

人 (person) + によって (depending on) + 違います (differs).

国によって言葉が違います。

Languages differ depending on the country.

国 (country) + によって (depending on).

この本はだれによって書かれましたか？

By whom was this book written?

だれ (who) + によって (by) in a passive sentence.

食べ物によって味が違います。

The taste differs depending on the food.

食べ物 (food) + によって (depending on).

場所によって天気が違います。

The weather differs depending on the location.

場所 (place) + によって (depending on).

色によってイメージが違います。

The image/impression differs depending on the color.

色 (color) + によって (depending on).

人によって好きなものが違います。

The things people like differ depending on the person.

好きなもの (things one likes) as the subject.

季節によって花が違います。

The flowers differ depending on the season.

季節 (season) + によって (depending on).

この絵は有名な画家によって描かれました。

This painting was painted by a famous artist.

Agent in a passive sentence (描かれました).

台風によって木が倒れました。

The tree fell down due to the typhoon.

Cause/Reason (台風).

電話によって連絡を取りました。

We contacted each other by phone.

Means/Method (電話).

人によって考え方が様々です。

Ways of thinking vary depending on the person.

様々 (various) is often used with によって.

不注意によって火事になりました。

A fire broke out due to carelessness.

不注意 (carelessness) as the cause.

この歌は多くの人によって歌われています。

This song is sung by many people.

Agent in a passive sentence (歌われています).

インターネットによって、買い物が便利になりました。

Shopping has become convenient through the internet.

Means/Method (インターネット).

日によってメニューが違います。

The menu differs depending on the day.

日 (day) + によって (depending on).

不注意による事故が増えています。

Accidents due to carelessness are increasing.

による modifies the noun 事故.

話し合いによって問題を解決しましょう。

Let's solve the problem through discussion.

Means/Method (話し合い).

人によっては、そのニュースを信じないかもしれません。

Depending on the person, they might not believe that news.

によっては focuses on specific cases.

地震によって多くの建物が壊れました。

Many buildings were destroyed due to the earthquake.

Cause/Reason in a formal context.

努力によって、夢をかなえることができました。

I was able to achieve my dream through effort.

Means/Method (努力).

法律によって、それは禁止されています。

That is prohibited by law.

Agent/Basis (法律).

国による文化の違いを学びました。

I learned about cultural differences depending on the country.

による modifies the noun 違い.

場合によっては、予定を変更することがあります。

Depending on the situation, we may change the schedule.

場合によっては is a common set phrase.

この制度は、国民の要望によって作られました。

This system was created based on the demands of the citizens.

Agent/Reason (国民の要望).

技術革新によって、私たちの生活は大きく変わりました。

Our lives have changed significantly due to technological innovation.

Cause/Reason in a formal context.

アンケートの結果によって、次の企画を決めます。

We will decide on the next project based on the survey results.

Basis for decision (アンケートの結果).

彼は、自分の不注意により、チャンスを逃してしまった。

He missed the chance due to his own carelessness.

により is a formal version of によって.

宗教によって、食べられるものが制限されています。

Depending on the religion, what can be eaten is restricted.

Variation/Dependency (宗教).

この薬は、人によっては副作用が出ることがあります。

This medicine may cause side effects depending on the person.

によっては highlighting specific cases.

実験によって、その理論の正しさが証明された。

The correctness of the theory was proven through experiments.

Means/Method (実験).

気候変動による影響が世界各地で見られます。

The effects due to climate change are seen in various parts of the world.

による modifying the noun 影響.

経済状況の悪化によって、多くの企業が倒産に追い込まれた。

Due to the worsening economic situation, many companies were forced into bankruptcy.

Complex cause in a formal context.

この論文は、膨大なデータの分析によって導き出されたものです。

This thesis was derived through the analysis of a vast amount of data.

Means/Method (データの分析).

教育制度の改革によって、学生の主体性が向上することが期待されている。

It is expected that students' independence will improve through the reform of the education system.

Means/Method leading to a future expectation.

個人の価値観によって、幸せの定義は大きく異なる。

The definition of happiness differs greatly depending on individual values.

Abstract dependency (価値観).

裁判所の判決によって、彼の無実が確定した。

His innocence was established by the court's ruling.

Agent/Authority (裁判所の判決).

情報のデジタル化によって、知識の共有が容易になった。

Knowledge sharing has become easier through the digitization of information.

Means/Method (デジタル化).

人によっては、この提案を不快に感じるかもしれない。

Depending on the person, they might find this proposal unpleasant.

によっては used for social nuance.

多角的な視点による分析が、問題解決には不可欠である。

Analysis from multifaceted perspectives is essential for problem-solving.

による modifying the noun 分析.

言語は、その使用者の思考様式によって規定される側面がある。

Language has aspects that are defined by the thought patterns of its users.

Abstract philosophical agency (思考様式).

グローバル化の進展によって、国家の枠組みが変容を遂げつつある。

With the progress of globalization, the framework of the nation-state is undergoing a transformation.

Complex social causality.

本研究は、実証的なアプローチによって既存の学説に異を唱えるものである。

This study challenges existing theories through an empirical approach.

Methodological agency in academic discourse.

歴史は、勝者によって書き換えられるという側面を否定できない。

One cannot deny the aspect that history is rewritten by the victors.

Passive agent with philosophical nuance.

環境への負荷を最小限に抑えることによって、持続可能な社会を実現する。

By minimizing the burden on the environment, we will realize a sustainable society.

Means/Method using a nominalized phrase (抑えること).

解釈の仕方によっては、この条文は多義的に捉えられかねない。

Depending on the interpretation, this clause could potentially be understood in multiple ways.

によっては used for legal ambiguity.

科学技術の濫用によって、人類は自らの首を絞めることになりかねない。

Through the misuse of science and technology, humanity could end up strangling itself.

Causality with a warning (になりかねない).

芸術は、時代背景による制約を受けつつも、それを超克しようとする試みである。

Art, while subject to constraints due to its historical background, is an attempt to overcome them.

による modifying the noun 制約.

Common Collocations

人によって違う

場合によって

努力によって

〜によって書かれた

地震によって

話し合いによって

国によって異なる

不注意によって

インターネットによって

調査によって

Common Phrases

人によって様々だ

時と場合によって

これによって

それによって

何によって

場所によって

目的によって

種類によって

方法によって

人によっては

Often Confused With

~によって vs 〜にとって

Means 'for/to someone'. Often confused because of the similar sound.

~によって vs 〜で

The casual version of 'by/through'. Using ~によって where 'de' is expected sounds too stiff.

~によって vs 〜に従って

Means 'according to a rule'. ~によって is about variation, not following a rule.

Idioms & Expressions

"ペンは剣よりも強し、しかし書く人によって..."

The pen is mightier than the sword, but it depends on the writer. A play on the proverb.

ペンは剣より強いが、使う人によって毒にも薬にもなる。

Literary

"見る人によって"

In the eye of the beholder. Used for subjective beauty or value.

この絵は、見る人によって価値が変わる。

Neutral

"〜の力によって"

By the power of... Used in dramatic or formal contexts.

愛の力によって、彼は救われた。

Formal/Dramatic

"〜の手によって"

By the hand of... Used when someone personally does something significant.

彼の自らの手によって、幕が下ろされた。

Literary

"天命によって"

By the will of heaven. Used for destiny or historical events.

天命によって、新しい時代が始まった。

Archaic/Formal

"偶然によって"

By chance. Used when something happens without planning.

偶然によって、二人は再会した。

Neutral

"民意によって"

By the will of the people. Used in political contexts.

民意によって、新しいリーダーが選ばれた。

Formal

"法によって裁く"

To judge by the law. A standard legal phrase.

悪事は法によって裁かれるべきだ。

Formal

"科学によって解明する"

To clarify through science. Used for research results.

その謎は科学によって解明された。

Formal

"縁によって"

By fate/connection. Used for relationships.

不思議な縁によって、私たちは出会った。

Neutral/Warm

Easily Confused

~によって vs 〜にとって

Phonetically similar.

によって is 'by/due to'; にとって is 'for/from the perspective of'.

私にとって (For me) vs 私によって (By me).

~によって vs 〜に対して

Both are compound particles starting with 'ni'.

に対して means 'towards' or 'in contrast to'.

彼に対して怒る (Angry at him).

~によって vs 〜に基づいて

Both can mean 'based on'.

に基づいて implies a logical foundation or data source; によって is broader causality.

事実に基づいて (Based on facts).

~によって vs 〜を通じて

Both can mean 'through'.

を通じて implies a medium or duration; によって is the direct method or cause.

ネットを通じて (Via the net).

~によって vs 〜に従って

Both can translate as 'according to'.

に従って is for rules/plans; によって is for variation/dependency.

指示に従って (According to instructions).

Sentence Patterns

Noun + によって + 違います

人によって違います。

Noun + によって + Passive Verb

彼によって作られました。

Noun + による + Noun

不注意によるミス。

Noun + によって + Result

大雨によって道が閉鎖された。

Noun + によっては + Sentence

人によっては反対する。

Noun + により + Sentence

技術革新により生活が変わった。

Means + によって + Achievement

話し合いによって解決した。

Abstract Noun + によって + Defined

価値観によって幸せが決まる。

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very High in formal/academic contexts; High in general polite speech.

Common Mistakes

私によって、それは難しいです。 → 私にとって、それは難しいです。
You used 'by me' instead of 'for me'. Use ~にとって for personal opinions.
台風によって被害がありました。 → 台風による被害がありました。
When modifying the noun 'damage' (higai) directly, you must use 'ni yoru'.
先生によって褒められました。 → 先生に褒められました。
For simple personal actions like being praised, use the particle 'ni', not 'ni yotte'.
バスによって学校へ行きます。 → バスで学校へ行きます。
Using ~によって for everyday transportation is too formal. Use 'de'.
人によって、考え方が同じです。 → 人によって、考え方が違います。
The 'depending on' meaning usually requires a word indicating difference (chigau) or variety (samazama).

Tips

Noun + による + Noun

Remember to change 'yotte' to 'yoru' when it comes right before a noun. This is a very common test question!

Avoid Over-formality

Don't use ~によって for everyday tools like pens or chopsticks. Use the simple particle 'de' instead.

Listen for 'Chigau'

If you hear 'chigau' or 'kotonaru' after 'ni yotte', you know it means 'depending on'.

Use for Attribution

When writing about a book or a movie, use ~によって to say who it was made by. It sounds very professional.

Respecting Diversity

Using '人によって' shows that you understand and respect that people have different viewpoints.

Passive Agent Rule

Only use ~によって for the agent in a passive sentence if they are a creator or if the action is a major event.

Pair with 'Samazama'

Pairing ~によって with '様々' (samazama) is a great way to say 'there are many different kinds depending on...'

Causality Marker

In formal writing, use ~によって to clearly show the cause of a problem or the reason for a success.

JLPT N3/N2 Focus

This particle is a 'must-know' for intermediate exams. Practice all four meanings to be fully prepared.

Shortening to 'Ni yori'

If you want your writing to sound like a newspaper, use 'ni yori' instead of 'ni yotte'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Yotte' as 'Your-Tail'. The result 'tails' or follows the cause. 'Ni Yotte' = 'By the tail of [Noun]'.

Visual Association

Imagine a bridge with 'Noun' on one side and 'Result' on the other. The bridge is labeled 'によって'.

Word Web

Cause Method Agent Variation Formal Passive Dependency Connection

Challenge

Try to write one sentence for each of the four meanings: agent, cause, means, and variation.

Word Origin

Derived from the verb 'yoru' (依る/因る), which means 'to depend on' or 'to be caused by'. The 'te' form creates a connective phrase.

Original meaning: To lean on or to be based upon a source.

Japanese (Japonic)

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use it for personal motives, as it can sound cold or robotic.

English speakers often use 'by' for everything. Japanese requires you to choose between 'de', 'ni', and 'ni yotte' based on formality and agency.

NHK News (Standard usage for reporting) Japanese Constitution (Legal usage) Academic papers in Japanese universities

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Academic Writing

調査によって
実験によって
データによって
分析によって

News Reporting

台風によって
事故によって
政府によって
〜により

Socializing

人によって
時と場合によって
気分によって
好みによって

Business

努力によって
話し合いによって
方針によって
結果によって

Art and History

〜によって描かれた
〜によって作られた
〜によって建てられた
〜によって発明された

Conversation Starters

"人によって幸せの定義は違うと思いますが、あなたはどう思いますか？"

"国によって一番人気のあるスポーツは何ですか？"

"季節によって、食べたいものは変わりますか？"

"場合によっては、仕事を辞めたいと思うことはありますか？"

"努力によって、どんなことでも達成できると信じていますか？"

Journal Prompts

「人によって考え方が違う」と感じた最近の出来事について書いてください。

あなたがこれまでに「努力によって」成し遂げたことについて説明してください。

インターネットによって、あなたの生活はどう変わりましたか？

「国によって違う文化」で、あなたが一番驚いたことは何ですか？

「場合によっては」予定を変更しなければならなかった時のことを思い出して書いてください。

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Technically yes, but it sounds very strange and overly formal. Use 'バスで行く' instead. ~によって is reserved for more significant means like 'through technology' or 'through effort'.

~により is simply a more formal, written version of ~によって. You will see it in newspapers and academic papers, but rarely hear it in casual conversation.

Use ~による when you want to modify a noun directly. For example: '地震による被害' (Damage caused by the earthquake). Here, 'による' acts like an adjective describing 'damage'.

Yes, it can indicate a cause or reason, but it is more formal than 'kara' or 'node'. It is usually used for natural disasters or significant events.

Yes, it is extremely common. It means 'depending on the person' and is used to acknowledge that everyone has different opinions or tastes.

No. For everyday passive actions like being scolded or praised, use the particle 'ni'. Use ~によって for creators of works (authors, inventors).

Only when it means 'depending on'. If it means 'by' or 'due to', the verb will be different (e.g., 'was written' or 'occurred').

Yes, ~によっては focuses on specific cases. It often means 'In some cases, depending on...' and suggests that there are exceptions.

No, it must follow a noun. If you want to use a verb, you must nominalize it first (e.g., '抑えることによって').

Yes, it is a very common grammar point on the JLPT N3 and N2 levels, covering all its different meanings.