に応じて【におうじて】

The grammar pattern に応じて expresses the idea of "depending on," "in accordance with," "in response to," or "suitable for." It is used when something changes, is adjusted, or is determined based on a particular condition, situation, or factor.

The pattern attaches to nouns: Noun + に応じて.

Adjusting or varying based on a condition

This is the most common usage – indicating that something changes or is decided in proportion to or depending on a variable factor.

Here, the result varies as the condition changes. This often appears in business, formal, or institutional contexts.

Responding to a request or situation

に応じて can also mean "in response to" – indicating that an action is taken as a reaction to a demand, need, or circumstance.

Related forms: に応じた

When modifying a noun directly, use the prenominal form に応じた:

This form is equivalent to saying "appropriate for" or "suited to."

Comparison with related grammar

• にあわせて合わせて: Similar meaning of "in accordance with," but focuses more on deliberately matching or coordinating with something.
• によって: Also means "depending on," but is broader and can indicate means, cause, or agent as well.
• しだい次第で: Emphasizes that the outcome hinges on a particular factor; often implies uncertainty about the result.

に応じて tends to carry a nuance of proportional adjustment or appropriate response – the idea that as one thing changes, another changes accordingly.