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For Life
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!

Today's LessonCATEGORY: ジャパニーズイングリッシュ
IT DEPENDS   場合による、~次第

Explanation

  • 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。

IT DEPENDS

examples

  1. a: Are you going to take the job?
    b: It depends.
    a: On what?
    b: On whether I get a better offer.
  2. 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.
  3. a: Are you going fishing tomorrow?
    b: I hope so, but it depends on the weather.
  4. a: Which do you like better, French or Californian wines?
    b: It really depends on the wine, doesn't it?
  5. Anne might not be able to come with us. It depends on how late she has to work.
  6. 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.

英会話レッスンThe WordMaster raises his glass to the health and happiness of you and those you love! Have a terrific weekend!