HOME > WordMaster® > IT DEPENDS | 場合による、~次第
2008.09.05(Review of 2004.10.19 edition)
Let's finish this week with an expression that, despite appearances, is SURE to be of great use to you!
IT DEPENDS 場合による、~次第
- It depends means that something changes with the situation or you aren't sure about something because you don't know the situation.
Be Careful! We don't usually use the expression “case-by-case” like the Japanese ケースバイケース to mean It depends. - It depends とは、状況によって変わる、または、状況が分からないのではっきりしたことは分からないこと、つまり、場合による、という意味です。
注意:日本語では It depends という意味で、「ケースバイケース」と言いますが、英語では case-by-case という表現は、あまり使いません。
- a: Are you going to take the job?
b: It depends.
a: On what?
b: On whether I get a better offer. - a: How do you spend your weekends?
b: It depends. I like to play golf, but if I've had a busy week, sometimes I just stay home. - a: Are you going fishing tomorrow?
b: I hope so, but it depends on the weather. - a: Which do you like better, French or Californian wines?
b: It really depends on the wine, doesn't it? - Anne might not be able to come with us. It depends on how late she has to work.
- a: Have you decided whether to buy the boat or not?
b: Not yet. It depends on whether or not the bank will give me a loan.
The WordMaster raises his glass to the health and happiness of you and those you love! Have a terrific weekend!