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B2 verb #7,500 most common 9 min read

依拠

ikyo Top 7,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 依拠 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 依拠 in your Level:

The word '依拠 (いきょ)' is a very difficult word for beginners. It means 'to use something as a base.' In English, we say 'based on.' Even though it is a hard word, you can think of it like this: if you build a house, the ground is the 'base.' The house 'relies' on the ground. In Japanese, when you have a very serious idea or a rule, and that rule comes from an old book or a law, you use '依拠.' You will not use this with your friends. You will only see it in very serious books or news. For now, just remember it means 'to be based on' in a very formal way.

At the A2 level, you should know that '依拠 (いきょ)' is a formal version of '基づく (motozuku).' While '基づく' is common and used for things like 'a story based on a movie,' '依拠' is used for 'a judgment based on the law.' It is a 'suru-verb,' so we say '依拠する.' It always uses the particle 'に' (ni). For example: 'Fact に依拠する' (to base on fact). You might see this word in a museum or a serious newspaper. It sounds very smart and professional. Don't use it for small things like 'I based my lunch on what was in the fridge.' That would sound very funny to Japanese people!

As a B1 learner, you are starting to encounter more academic and formal Japanese. '依拠 (いきょ)' is a key word for understanding formal arguments. It means to rely on an authority or a source as the foundation for your work. You will often find it in the form '〜に依拠している' (is based on...). It is different from '頼る' (tayoru) because '頼る' is for people helping each other. '依拠' is for ideas or laws. For example, if a lawyer says a decision is based on a previous case, they use '依拠.' It is a very precise word that shows exactly where an idea comes from. Using it in your writing will make your Japanese sound much more advanced.

At the B2 level, you should understand the specific nuances of '依拠 (いきょ).' It implies a foundational reliance where the 'basis' is the justification for the 'result.' A critical context is copyright law (著作権法), where '依拠性' (ikyosei) refers to whether a work was actually copied from another. This shows that the word is about a causal link. You should distinguish it from '準拠' (junkyo), which is about following standards or specifications. '依拠' is for the source of the idea itself. In your essays, use '依拠' when citing a primary source or a fundamental theory to provide a strong, formal justification for your claims. It carries a heavy, authoritative tone.

For C1 learners, '依拠 (いきょ)' is an essential tool for high-level discourse. It functions to establish the 'raison d'être' of a proposition by linking it to an authoritative source. You should be able to use it in complex structures, such as '〜に依拠しつつ、独自の視点を提示する' (while basing [the work] on..., presenting a unique perspective). It is often contrasted with '独創' (dokusō - originality). In scholarly criticism, one might analyze to what extent a text 'ikyo's' on classical literature versus where it breaks away. Mastery of this word involves knowing when its formality is required—such as in legal briefs, academic papers, and official government white papers—to convey a sense of rigorous substantiation.

At the C2 level, '依拠 (いきょ)' is used with a full appreciation of its philosophical and legal weight. It denotes a relationship of derivation and justification that is central to hermeneutics and legal theory. You should understand its role in the 'ikyo-sei' (dependency) requirement in intellectual property litigation, where it serves as a technical term for the 'copying' element. Furthermore, in philosophical texts, it describes the ontological or epistemological grounding of a system. You can use it to critique the structural integrity of an argument by questioning its '依拠する対象' (the object it relies upon). At this level, the word is not just a synonym for 'based on,' but a precise descriptor of the intellectual architecture of a thought or a system.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

依拠 in 30 Seconds

依拠 (ikyo) means to rely on an authoritative foundation or source.
It is a highly formal word used in law, academia, and news.
Always use the particle に (ni) before 依拠する (ikyo-suru).
It differs from common 'reliance' by focusing on logical or legal justification.

The Japanese word 依拠 (いきょ, ikyo) is a formal verb, usually appearing as 依拠する (ikyo-suru), which translates to 'to rely on,' 'to be based on,' or 'to depend on' a specific foundation, authority, or source. Unlike the common word 頼る (tayoru), which often implies a physical or emotional dependence on a person, 依拠 is strictly intellectual, legal, or structural. It describes the relationship between a conclusion and its premise, a law and its precedent, or a creative work and its source material. When you use this word, you are signaling that something does not stand alone; its validity or existence is fundamentally tied to an external reference point. In academic writing, this is the standard way to describe how a theory is built upon previous research. In legal contexts, it describes how a judgment is rooted in specific statutes.

Academic Context: When a researcher states their methodology is based on a specific framework, they use 依拠 to show the scholarly lineage of their work.

この学説は、最新の統計データに依拠している。(This theory relies on the latest statistical data.)

The nuance of 依拠 involves a sense of 'justification.' If you are ikyo-ing on something, you are using it as your shield or your ground. In copyright law, for instance, the term 依拠性 (ikyosei) is crucial; it refers to whether a defendant actually 'relied upon' or 'copied' an existing work, rather than creating something similar by sheer coincidence. This highlights that the word is about a causal, foundational link. It is not used for trivial things like 'relying on a friend for a ride' or 'relying on a map.' Instead, it is for 'relying on a map as the definitive legal proof of a border.' The gravity of the word makes it unsuitable for casual daily conversation but indispensable for professional, legal, and academic discourse in Japan.

Legal Usage: Judges use this word to explain that their ruling is not arbitrary but is firmly grounded in the Constitution or specific precedents.

Furthermore, 依拠 implies a level of strictness. When you base an argument on a fact using this word, you are suggesting that if that fact were proven wrong, your entire argument would collapse. It identifies the 'single point of failure' or the 'foundational pillar' of a thought process. Because of this, it is a high-responsibility word. If you say you are ikyo-ing on a specific source, you are giving that source full credit (and responsibility) for the validity of your current statement. It is the bridge between the 'source' and the 'result.'

裁判官は過去の判例に依拠して判決を下した。(The judge handed down the verdict based on past precedents.)

Using 依拠 correctly requires understanding its grammatical partnership with the particle に (ni). The standard pattern is [Source/Basis] + に + 依拠する. Because it is a suru-verb, it can be used in various forms such as 依拠している (is relying on), 依拠した (relied on), or 依拠すべき (should rely on). It is almost never used with the particle を (wo) because you are not 'acting upon' the basis, but rather 'standing upon' it. This distinction is vital for sounding natural in high-level Japanese writing.

Grammar Rule: Always use the particle 'に' to indicate the foundation or authority being relied upon.

彼の主張は客観的な事実に依拠していない。(His claim is not based on objective facts.)

In formal reports, you will often see 依拠 used to justify a change in policy or a specific technical choice. For example, 'Based on the new safety standards, we have updated the manual' would use 依拠 if the standards are the legal authority for the update. It suggests a mandatory or highly authoritative relationship. If the relationship is more casual, like 'I based my drawing on a photo I saw,' 依拠 would sound overly dramatic and slightly strange; in that case, 参考にする (sanko ni suru) would be better. 依拠 is for when the source is the reason for the existence of the result.

Formal Reporting: Using this word in a business report indicates that you have done your due diligence and are following established protocols.

この報告書は、政府の公式統計に依拠して作成されました。(This report was prepared based on official government statistics.)

Another important usage is in the negative: 依拠しない (ikyo shinai). This is often used to describe original thought or independent action that does not follow existing patterns. In literature, a critic might say an author's style does not ikyo on any previous genre, suggesting pure originality. However, in most cases, 依拠 is used affirmatively to establish credibility. By naming your source and using 依拠する, you are effectively saying, 'Don't just take my word for it; look at this authoritative source I am standing on.'

独自の調査に依拠した結論を導き出す。(To derive a conclusion based on independent research.)

You are unlikely to hear 依拠 at a grocery store or in a casual chat between friends. It is a 'prestige' word found in high-density information environments. The most common place to encounter it is in news broadcasts, particularly during segments involving the Supreme Court or legislative changes. When a reporter says, 'The court's decision was based on the interpretation of Article 9,' they will use 依拠. It conveys the weight of the law and the necessity of the basis.

Mass Media: News anchors use it to describe the legal foundations of government actions or corporate scandals.

新法案は、国際的な基準に依拠して策定された。(The new bill was drafted based on international standards.)

Another major domain is academia and higher education. In university lectures, professors use 依拠 to discuss the foundations of philosophical schools or scientific paradigms. If you are reading a Japanese thesis or a peer-reviewed journal article, you will see 依拠 frequently in the 'Literature Review' or 'Methodology' sections. It is the polite and professional way to acknowledge the giants on whose shoulders the researcher is standing. Using it correctly in your own writing marks you as a member of the educated elite who understands Japanese academic conventions.

University Lectures: Professors use it to explain how modern theories evolved from classical foundations.

この論考は、ハイデガーの存在論に依拠している。(This treatise is based on Heidegger's ontology.)

Finally, you will find it in technical and legal documentation. Manuals for high-stakes engineering, software compliance documents, and corporate bylaws use 依拠 to link specific rules to higher-level regulations. For example, a privacy policy might state that its data handling procedures ikyo on the Personal Information Protection Act. This usage ensures there is a clear, traceable line of authority for every rule, which is a hallmark of Japanese corporate and legal culture.

当社のプライバシーポリシーは、国内法に依拠しています。(Our privacy policy is based on domestic law.)

The most frequent mistake learners make with 依拠 is using it in casual or personal contexts. Because it translates to 'rely on,' many students try to say things like 友人に依拠する (relying on a friend) or スマホに依拠する (relying on a smartphone). This is incorrect. For personal reliance or emotional support, use 頼る (tayoru) or 依存する (izon-suru). 依拠 is strictly for 'relying on information/authority as a logical basis.' If there is no 'argument' or 'foundation' involved, don't use it.

Mistake #1: Personal Reliance: Incorrect: 彼は母親に依拠している。(He relies on his mother.)
Correct: 彼は母親に頼っている。

❌ 毎日の生活を奨学金に依拠する。
✅ 毎日の生活を奨学金に頼る。

Another common error is confusing 依拠 (ikyo) with 準拠 (junkyo). While they are similar, 準拠 means 'to follow a standard' or 'to comply with a rule' (like 'USB-compliant'). 依拠 means that the source is the root of the current thing. If you are following a guide, you are junkyo-ing. If your entire theory exists only because that guide exists, you are ikyo-ing. 依拠 is deeper and more foundational. Using 依拠 when you just mean 'following the rules' can make you sound like you don't understand the hierarchy of the documents you are citing.

Mistake #2: Confusion with 準拠: Use '準拠' for compliance with standards. Use '依拠' for the logical/legal source of an idea.

❌ この製品は安全基準に依拠している。
✅ この製品は安全基準に準拠している。

Lastly, learners sometimes forget the particle に and try to use を. Since 依拠 is about a state of being based on something, it is an intransitive-style relationship in Japanese thought. You 'exist in a state of reliance upon' the basis. Using を makes it sound like you are actively doing something to the basis, which is logically incorrect in this context. Always double-check your particles when using high-level Kango (Sino-Japanese words) like this one.

❌ 証拠を依拠して話す。
✅ 証拠に依拠して話す。

To truly master 依拠, you must see how it sits among its synonyms. The most common alternative is 基づく (motozuku). This also means 'to be based on' and is much more versatile. You can use 基づく in both formal and semi-formal situations. While 基づく is the 'everyday' version, 依拠 is the 'professional/academic' version. If you are writing a casual blog post, use 基づく. If you are writing a dissertation, use 依拠 to sound more authoritative.

依拠 vs 基づく: 依拠: Highly formal, implies a strong logical or legal necessity.
基づく: General purpose, can be used for stories, opinions, or facts.

事実に基づく物語 (A story based on facts - common usage).
証拠に依拠した判決 (A verdict based on evidence - legal usage).

Another similar word is 立脚する (rikkyaku-suru). This literally means 'to stand on one's feet' but is used metaphorically to mean 'to take a standpoint' or 'to base one's position on.' While 依拠 focuses on the *source* of information, 立脚 focuses on the *standpoint* or *perspective* of the person. You ikyo on a document, but you rikkyaku on a philosophy or a point of view. Use 立脚 when discussing ideologies or political positions.

依拠 vs 立脚: 依拠: Focuses on the foundation/source.
立脚: Focuses on the perspective/standpoint.

民主主義の原則に立脚する。(To take a stand based on democratic principles.)

Finally, there is 準拠 (junkyo), as mentioned before. It is specifically for 'standards' and 'compliance.' If you are making a product that needs to meet 'ISO standards,' you use 準拠. If you are writing a book that is based on 'historical records,' you use 依拠. Understanding these subtle differences allows you to navigate the complex world of Japanese formal vocabulary with precision and grace.

史料に依拠して歴史小説を書く。(To write a historical novel based on historical materials.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 拠 (kyo) is also used in 'honkyo' (headquarters), which literally means the 'original base.' So, 'ikyo' is basically saying your thoughts have a 'headquarters' in another source.

Pronunciation Guide

UK i.kyo

US i.kjoʊ

The pitch usually starts low on 'i' and rises on 'kyo' (Heiban pattern).

Rhymes With

布教 (fukyo - proselytizing) 架橋 (kakyo - bridge building) 帰去 (kiko - returning) 卑怯 (hikyo - cowardice) 秘境 (hikyo - unexplored region) 比較 (hikaku - comparison) 離居 (riko - living apart) 棄去 (kiko - abandonment)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'kyo' as two separate syllables 'ki-yo'. It should be one blended sound.
Confusing the pitch with 'ikyo' (different kanji/meaning).
Mistaking 'ikyo' for 'ikyū' (urgent).
Over-extending the 'o' sound (ikyoō).
Misreading the first kanji as 'ne' (from 願).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

The kanji are somewhat advanced, and the context is always formal.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of the 'ni' particle and the correct formal register.

Speaking 5/5

Rarely used in speech unless in a very formal presentation or debate.

Listening 3/5

Easy to recognize once you know the sound 'ikyo' in a news context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

基づく (motozuku) 根拠 (konkyo) 理由 (riyu) 事実 (jijitsu) 法律 (horitsu)

Learn Next

準拠 (junkyo) 立脚 (rikkyaku) 依託 (itaku) 証拠 (shoko) 正当性 (seitosei)

Advanced

蓋然性 (gaizensei) 帰謬法 (kibyūhō) 演繹的 (enyukuteki) 帰納的 (kinōteki) 存在論 (sonzairon)

Grammar to Know

Suru-verbs with 'ni' particle

事実に依拠する (To rely on facts).

Formal nominalization with 'sei'

依拠性 (ikyosei - the quality of reliance).

Conjunctive form 'shitsutsu' (while doing)

伝統に依拠しつつ、新しい道を切り拓く。

Modifying nouns with 'shita'

文献に依拠したレポート。

Negative 'shinai' with 'koto naku'

何にも依拠することなく、自由に考える。

Examples by Level

この本は、事実に依拠しています。

This book is based on facts.

Uses 'ni' to show what the book is based on.

その話は、古い記録に依拠している。

That story is based on old records.

依拠している is the continuous form, very common.

ルールに依拠して、ゲームをします。

We play the game based on the rules.

Shows the rules are the foundation of the action.

証拠に依拠することが大切です。

It is important to rely on evidence.

Using 'koto' to make the verb a noun phrase.

この図面は、データに依拠している。

This drawing is based on data.

Data is the source for the drawing.

法律に依拠して、決めます。

I will decide based on the law.

The law is the authority for the decision.

彼の意見は、経験に依拠している。

His opinion is based on experience.

Experience is used as the basis here.

その計画は、予算に依拠する。

The plan depends on the budget.

The budget is the foundation for the plan.

裁判官は、過去の判例に依拠して判決を出した。

The judge gave a verdict based on past precedents.

判例 (precedent) is a very common word used with 依拠.

このレポートは、公式な統計に依拠しています。

This report is based on official statistics.

公式な統計 (official statistics) provides authority.

独自の調査に依拠した意見を述べる。

I will state an opinion based on my own research.

依拠した modifies the noun 意見.

その説は、信頼できる文献に依拠していない。

That theory is not based on reliable literature.

Negative form 依拠していない shows a lack of basis.

新しい法律に依拠して、手続きを行う。

We will carry out the procedures based on the new law.

Shows the legal authority for an action.

この地図は、最新の観測に依拠している。

This map is based on the latest observations.

Observation (観測) as the foundation.

伝統的な技法に依拠して、茶碗を作る。

I make tea bowls based on traditional techniques.

Techniques (技法) as the basis for creation.

論文の結論は、実験結果に依拠すべきだ。

The conclusion of a paper should rely on experimental results.

〜べきだ (should) added to 依拠する.

学問的な議論は、客観的な事実に依拠しなければならない。

Academic discussions must rely on objective facts.

Must rely (依拠しなければならない) indicates necessity.

その映画は、有名な小説に依拠して制作された。

That movie was produced based on a famous novel.

Passive form 制作された with 依拠して.

憲法の精神に依拠して、新しい政策を考える。

We will consider new policies based on the spirit of the Constitution.

Metaphorical use: 'spirit' (精神) of the law.

彼の主張は、偏ったデータに依拠している可能性がある。

There is a possibility that his claim is based on biased data.

可能性がある (there is a possibility) softens the statement.

このシステムは、国際基準に依拠して設計されています。

This system is designed based on international standards.

Passive design (設計されています) based on standards.

過去の経験だけに依拠するのは危険だ。

It is dangerous to rely only on past experience.

だけ (only) limits the basis.

政府の発表に依拠して、今後の対策を立てる。

We will make future plans based on the government's announcement.

The announcement is the authority for the plan.

この翻訳は、原典に忠実に依拠している。

This translation relies faithfully on the original text.

忠実に (faithfully) describes the quality of the reliance.

著作権侵害の判断には、依拠性の有無が重要となる。

In determining copyright infringement, the presence or absence of 'ikyo-sei' (reliance) is important.

依拠性 (ikyosei) is a specific legal noun derived from 依拠.

その研究は、先行研究の結果に全面的に依拠している。

That research relies entirely on the results of previous studies.

全面的に (entirely) emphasizes the depth of reliance.

科学的な理論は、検証可能な証拠に依拠すべきである。

Scientific theories should be based on verifiable evidence.

検証可能な (verifiable) is a typical B2 adjective.

彼の政治的立場は、特定のイデオロギーに依拠している。

His political stance is based on a specific ideology.

Ideology (イデオロギー) as a foundation.

この判決は、法の支配という原則に依拠している。

This ruling is based on the principle of the rule of law.

法の支配 (rule of law) is a high-level concept.

外部の専門家の意見に依拠して、最終決定を下す。

The final decision will be made based on the opinions of outside experts.

Expert opinions as the authoritative basis.

その小説のプロットは、歴史的な事実に強く依拠している。

The plot of that novel is strongly based on historical facts.

強く (strongly) adverb used with 依拠.

情報源に依拠することなく、独自の考察を展開する。

To develop one's own considerations without relying on [specific] information sources.

〜ことなく (without doing) used with 依拠する.

本論文は、フーコーの権力論に依拠しつつ、現代社会を分析する。

This paper analyzes modern society while basing itself on Foucault's theory of power.

〜に依拠しつつ (while relying on) is a sophisticated conjunctive form.

その建築デザインは、機能主義の哲学に深く依拠している。

The architectural design is deeply rooted in the philosophy of functionalism.

Philosophy (哲学) as the foundational source.

解釈学的アプローチは、テキストの文脈に依拠することを求める。

The hermeneutic approach requires relying on the context of the text.

Hermeneutic (解釈学的) is a C1-level academic term.

いかなる権威にも依拠しない、自律的な思考が求められている。

Autonomous thinking that does not rely on any authority is required.

Negative modifier 'いかなる権威にも依拠しない'.

この法案の正当性は、国際人権規約に依拠している。

The legitimacy of this bill is based on the International Covenants on Human Rights.

Legitimacy (正当性) tied to a basis.

伝統に依拠しながらも、革新的な表現を追求する。

Pursuing innovative expression while relying on tradition.

Contrast '依拠しながらも' (while relying, but...).

その批評は、多分に主観的な印象に依拠している感が否めない。

One cannot deny the feeling that the criticism relies largely on subjective impressions.

〜感が否めない (cannot deny the feeling) is a formal C1 expression.

宗教的教義に依拠した社会秩序の構築を試みる。

Attempting to construct a social order based on religious dogma.

Social order (社会秩序) as the result.

デカルト的二元論に依拠する近代科学のパラダイムを再考する。

Reconsidering the paradigm of modern science which relies on Cartesian dualism.

Cartesian dualism (デカルト的二元論) is a high-level philosophical concept.

法解釈において、文言の厳密な意味に依拠する立場をとる。

In legal interpretation, taking a stance that relies on the strict meaning of the wording.

Legal interpretation (法解釈) context.

その芸術作品の卓越性は、古典的な構図に依拠しつつ、それを解体した点にある。

The excellence of that artwork lies in the fact that it relied on classical composition while deconstructing it.

Deconstruction (解体) as a counterpart to 依拠.

現象学的な記述は、直接的な経験の与えられ方に依拠する。

Phenomenological description relies on the way direct experience is given.

Phenomenological (現象学的) context.

既存の知の体系に依拠することの限界を指摘する。

Pointing out the limitations of relying on existing systems of knowledge.

System of knowledge (知の体系).

実証主義的な研究手法に依拠し、社会現象を定量的に分析する。

Relying on positivist research methods to quantitatively analyze social phenomena.

Positivist (実証主義的な) and quantitative (定量的に).

この論理構成は、アリストテレスの三段論法に依拠している。

This logical structure is based on Aristotelian syllogism.

Syllogism (三段論法) as the basis.

自己の良心のみに依拠して、その重大な決断を下した。

He made that grave decision relying solely on his own conscience.

Conscience (良心) as the ultimate internal authority.

Synonyms

基づく準拠依存立脚

Antonyms

自立独立

Common Collocations

事実に依拠する

判例に依拠する

統計に依拠する

文献に依拠する

法律に依拠する

理論に依拠する

依拠性を認める

全面的に依拠する

資料に依拠する

伝統に依拠する

Common Phrases

〜に依拠して

— Based on... / Relying on... This is the most common adverbial form.

マニュアルに依拠して作業を進める。

依拠するところが大きい

— To depend largely on something. Used to show a heavy influence.

この成功は彼の努力に依拠するところが大きい。

依拠すべき基準

— The standard that one should rely on or follow.

我々が依拠すべき基準は何か。

依拠の対象

— The object or source being relied upon.

依拠の対象を明確にする必要がある。

依拠性の証明

— Proving that something was based on or copied from a source.

法廷で依拠性の証明が求められた。

〜に依拠する限り

— As long as one relies on... / Insofar as it is based on...

このデータに依拠する限り、結論は変わらない。

特定の説に依拠する

— To base one's argument on a specific theory or opinion.

彼は特定の説に依拠して自説を展開した。

相互に依拠する

— To rely on each other. Used for systems or logical points.

二つの理論は相互に依拠し合っている。

依拠しがたい

— Hard to rely on. Used when a source is untrustworthy.

その証言は依拠しがたい内容だ。

依拠の根拠

— The reason or basis for relying on something.

依拠の根拠を問われる。

Often Confused With

依拠 vs 依存 (izon)

Izon is 'dependence' (like addiction or needing help). Ikyo is 'logical basis.'

依拠 vs 準拠 (junkyo)

Junkyo is 'compliance' with a set standard. Ikyo is 'basing' something on a source.

依拠 vs 根拠 (konkyo)

Konkyo is a noun meaning 'grounds.' Ikyo is a verb meaning 'to rely on those grounds.'

Idioms & Expressions

"拠り所を失う"

— To lose one's foundation or something to lean on. Used when someone is lost or confused.

精神的な拠り所を失ってしまった。

Literary

"足元に依拠する"

— To rely on what is right beneath one's feet (the immediate reality).

空論を避け、足元に依拠した議論をする。

Formal

"過去に依拠する"

— To be stuck in or based purely on the past.

過去に依拠するばかりでは進歩がない。

Formal

"筆に依拠する"

— To make a living by writing (relying on the pen).

彼は筆に依拠して生計を立てている。

Literary

"他力に依拠する"

— To rely on external power or the help of others (often used in a Buddhist context).

自力ではなく他力に依拠する思想。

Formal/Philosophical

"数字に依拠する"

— To rely strictly on numbers and data rather than intuition.

勘ではなく数字に依拠して経営判断を行う。

Business

"権威に依拠する"

— To hide behind or rely on authority rather than thinking for oneself.

権威に依拠するだけの反論は無意味だ。

Formal

"伝統に依拠して立つ"

— To stand firmly based on tradition.

新しさを求めつつも、伝統に依拠して立つ。

Literary

"法に依拠して裁く"

— To judge based strictly on the law.

感情を排し、法に依拠して裁くのが司法の役割だ。

Legal

"現実に依拠する"

— To be grounded in reality.

理想も大切だが、まずは現実に依拠すべきだ。

Formal

Easily Confused

依拠 vs 依存 (izon)

Both translate to 'reliance' or 'dependence.'

Izon is usually for people, substances, or systems needing support to function. Ikyo is for ideas or laws needing a logical foundation. You izon on your parents, but you ikyo on a law.

スマホに依存する (Addicted to smartphone) vs. 法律に依拠する (Based on law).

依拠 vs 準拠 (junkyo)

Both involve following a source.

Junkyo is about following a manual or standard (compliance). Ikyo is about the source being the very reason for the work's existence. A product is junkyo with standards; a thesis is ikyo on data.

規格に準拠する (Comply with standards) vs. 文献に依拠する (Base on literature).

依拠 vs 基づく (motozuku)

They have the exact same basic meaning.

Motozuku is neutral and used for movies, stories, and daily life. Ikyo is extremely formal and used for academic and legal contexts. You wouldn't use ikyo for a movie 'based on a true story.'

実話に基づく映画 (Movie based on a true story) vs. 判例に依拠した判決 (Verdict based on precedent).

依拠 vs 立脚 (rikkyaku)

Both mean 'to base on.'

Rikkyaku emphasizes the 'standpoint' or 'perspective' of the person. Ikyo emphasizes the 'source material' or 'authority.' You rikkyaku on a philosophy; you ikyo on a text.

個人の自由に立脚する (Stand on individual freedom) vs. 統計に依拠する (Base on statistics).

依拠 vs 引用 (inyō)

Both involve using other people's work.

Inyō is 'quoting' (directly taking words). Ikyo is 'basing' (using the ideas/authority as a foundation). You can ikyo on a book without directly inyō-ing a single sentence.

言葉を引用する (Quote words) vs. 理論に依拠する (Base on a theory).

Sentence Patterns

[Source] に依拠する

事実に依拠する。

[Source] に依拠して [Action]

資料に依拠して報告書を書く。

[Source] に依拠しつつ、[Own Opinion]

先行研究に依拠しつつ、独自の考察を加える。

[Source] への依拠が [Adjective]

過去への依拠が強すぎる。

いかなる [Noun] にも依拠しない

いかなる権威にも依拠しない。

[Source] に依拠した [Noun]

データに依拠した判断。

[Source] に全面的に依拠する

特定の文献に全面的に依拠する。

依拠すべき [Basis] の欠如

依拠すべき論理的根拠の欠如。

Word Family

Nouns

依拠 (ikyo - reliance/basis)

依拠性 (ikyosei - the quality of being based on something/dependency)

Verbs

依拠する (ikyo-suru - to rely on/base on)

依存 (izon - dependence)

依託 (itaku - entrusting)

帰拠 (kikyo - taking refuge in)

根拠 (konkyo - grounds/evidence)

証拠 (shoko - evidence)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in specialized fields (law, research) but rare in everyday life.

Common Mistakes

親に依拠する (Relying on parents) → 親に頼る (Tayoru) / 依存する (Izon-suru)
依拠 is for logical or legal bases, not for personal or financial support from people.
データを依拠して (Relying data...) → データに依拠して (Relying ON data...)
You must use the particle 'ni' with 依拠する. Using 'wo' or no particle is grammatically incorrect.
映画の依拠 (The basis of the movie) → 映画の原作 (Gensaku) / 映画の基 (Moto)
For creative works like movies based on books, '原作' or '基づく' is standard. '依拠' sounds too clinical for entertainment.
規則に依拠する (Comply with rules) → 規則に準拠する (Junkyo-suru)
While similar, '準拠' is the standard term for following technical rules or specifications.
依拠している人 (A person who relies on...) → 依存している人 (Izon-shiteiru hito)
If you are talking about a person's dependency (like on a drug or a person), '依存' is the only correct choice.

Tips

When to use 依拠

Use this word when you are citing a primary source, a law, or a fundamental theory in a formal essay. It shows that your argument is deeply rooted in that authority.

Academic Tone

If you want your Japanese thesis to sound professional, use '依拠する' instead of '基づく' in your methodology section. It signals a higher level of academic rigor.

Legal Context

Remember that '依拠性' (ikyosei) is a key term in intellectual property. Knowing this will help you understand Japanese news about tech or art lawsuits.

Particle Choice

Always pair '依拠' with 'に'. Using 'を' is a common error for learners because they think of it as a direct action, but in Japanese, it's a state of being based on something.

Foundation vs. Standard

Don't confuse '依拠' with '準拠'. Use '依拠' for the source of your ideas and '準拠' for the rules you are following.

Pitch Accent

The pitch is flat (Heiban). Try to keep your voice level across 'i' and 'kyo' for the most natural sound.

Formal Reports

In corporate reports, '統計に依拠して' (based on statistics) sounds much more credible and thorough than '統計を見て' (looking at statistics).

News Keywords

When you hear 'ikyo' on the news, the words immediately preceding it are the most important, as they represent the authority being cited.

Kanji Meaning

Focus on the 'kyo' (拠) kanji. It also appears in 'honkyo' (headquarters). Think of 'ikyo' as placing your argument's headquarters in a specific source.

Dress Code for Words

Think of '依拠' as a tuxedo. You wouldn't wear it to a casual picnic (daily life), but it's perfect for a formal ceremony (academic/legal writing).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of the 'I' in 依 as 'Information' and the 'Kyo' in 拠 as 'Key.' You are using 'Information as the Key' to your argument.

Visual Association

Imagine a lawyer standing on a giant book of laws. The lawyer is '依拠'-ing on that book to stand tall.

Word Web

Law Evidence Basis Academic Authority Copyright Research Fact

Challenge

Try to write three sentences about your favorite hobby using '依拠して.' For example, 'I play guitar based on (依拠して) classical methods.'

Word Origin

The word is a Sino-Japanese compound (Kango) consisting of two characters: 依 (i) and 拠 (kyo). Both characters have origins in Classical Chinese and were brought to Japan over a millennium ago.

Original meaning: 依 means 'to lean on' or 'to depend.' 拠 means 'a foothold,' 'a base,' or 'evidence.' Together, they form the meaning of 'finding a foothold by leaning on something,' which evolved into the modern meaning of 'basing an argument on authority.'

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use this word for emotional dependence, as it can sound cold or overly clinical.

English speakers often use 'based on' for everything. In Japanese, you must choose between 'motozuku' (general) and 'ikyo' (formal/legal).

The Japanese Civil Code (Minpō) often uses terms related to 依拠. Academic guidelines by MEXT (Ministry of Education) use 依拠 regarding citation standards. Copyright infringement cases (e.g., the 'Peko-chan' case) often debate 'ikyosei'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Legal Proceedings

判例に依拠する
法律の条文に依拠する
証拠に依拠して判断する
依拠性を立証する

Academic Writing

先行研究に依拠する
一次資料に依拠する
特定の理論に依拠する
文献に依拠した分析

Government Reports

統計データに依拠する
調査結果に依拠する
専門家の見解に依拠する
国際基準に依拠した政策

Journalism

信頼できる情報源に依拠する
現地の取材に依拠する
公式発表に依拠して報じる
事実に依拠した報道

Technical Manuals

設計図に依拠する
安全基準に依拠する
仕様書に依拠して製作する
技術基準に依拠した運用

Conversation Starters

"あなたの主張は、どの統計に依拠しているのですか？ (Which statistics is your claim based on?)"

"この新しいプロジェクトは、過去のどの成功例に依拠していますか？ (Which past success is this new project based on?)"

"その説が依拠している資料は、信頼できるものですか？ (Is the material that theory relies on reliable?)"

"私たちは感情ではなく、事実に依拠して議論すべきではないでしょうか？ (Shouldn't we discuss based on facts rather than emotions?)"

"この法律の解釈は、具体的にどの判例に依拠していますか？ (Specifically, which precedent does this legal interpretation rely on?)"

Journal Prompts

自分が最も大切にしている価値観は、どのような経験や教えに依拠しているか書いてみましょう。 (Write about what experiences or teachings your most important values are based on.)

最近読んだ本やニュースが、どのような情報源に依拠していたか分析してください。 (Analyze what information sources a book or news item you recently read was based on.)

「独創性」と「過去の作品への依拠」のバランスについて、自分の考えを述べてください。 (State your thoughts on the balance between 'originality' and 'reliance on past works.')

もし全ての法律が何にも依拠していなかったら、社会はどうなるか想像して書いてください。 (Imagine and write about what society would be like if all laws were not based on anything.)

自分が下した重大な決断が、どのような事実に依拠していたか振り返ってみましょう。 (Reflect on what facts a major decision you made was based on.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, that is a common mistake. For relying on a person for help or emotional support, use '頼る' (tayoru) or '依存する' (izon-suru). '依拠' is only for relying on an intellectual or legal basis.

Hardly ever. It is almost exclusively found in written Japanese, news reports, or formal speeches. In daily life, people use '基づく' (motozuku) or '参考にする' (sanko ni suru).

It almost always takes the particle 'に' (ni). For example: '事実に依拠する' (To rely on facts).

Think of '準拠' (junkyo) as 'following the rules' or 'compliance.' Think of '依拠' (ikyo) as 'the root source' or 'foundation.' A charger is '準拠' with a standard; a judge's decision is '依拠' on a law.

It is a noun that becomes a verb by adding 'suru.' As a noun, it means 'reliance' or 'basis.' As a verb, it means 'to rely on' or 'to base on.'

It is a legal term that refers to whether a person actually saw and copied another's work. It's the 'proof of reliance' needed to show that a similarity wasn't just a coincidence.

Yes, but only if you are discussing something very serious, like a legal contract or a major technical standard. For general business matters, '基づく' is safer and less stiff.

'根拠' (konkyo) is the noun for 'evidence' or 'grounds.' '依拠' (ikyo) is the action of relying on those grounds. You have a 'konkyo,' and you 'ikyo' on it.

Generally, no. It is a neutral, descriptive word. However, in an academic context, saying a work 'relies too much' on a single source might imply a lack of originality.

No, it is a short 'i' sound. Pronouncing it as 'iikyo' would be incorrect.

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Translate to Japanese: 'This theory is based on objective facts.' Use '依拠'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

理論 (theory), 客観的な事実 (objective facts), 依拠している (is based on).