GRAMMAR DETAIL
〜によっては
Indicates that a different result may arise in some cases when the subject or condition varies.
Examples
地域によっては冬でも雪がほとんど降らない。
In some regions, it hardly snows even in winter.
Words used
体調によっては参加を見合わせてください。
Depending on your physical condition, please refrain from participating.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure: Attach
によってはto a condition noun to single out some cases among the alternatives. - Basic usage:
地域によっては冬でも雪がほとんど降らない。points out that some regions receive little snow even in winter.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- General variation and particular cases
地域によって気候が違うdescribes regional variation broadly, while地域によっては雪が降らないsingles out certain cases within it.はhighlights those particular cases.
- A response that depends on the condition
体調によっては休むallows resting under a particular physical condition. It leaves room for the response to vary rather than prescribing rest regardless of one's condition.