The expressions 〜にとって, 〜によって, 〜に対して, 〜として, and 〜について are all used to indicate various relationships or contexts in Japanese. Here’s a breakdown of each one, along with their meanings and usages:
1. 〜にとって
- Meaning: "For" or "from the perspective of."
- Usage: This expression is used to indicate how something is perceived or considered from a particular person’s viewpoint.
- Example:
- 彼にとって、成功は大切です。
("For him, success is important.")
2. 〜によって
- Meaning: "By" or "due to."
- Usage: This expression is used to indicate the means, method, or cause of an action or event. It can also denote variability or differentiation.
- Example:
- この問題は専門家によって解決されました。
("This issue was resolved by experts.")
3. 〜に対して
- Meaning: "Against" or "toward."
- Usage: This expression is used to indicate a direction of action or attitude toward something, often involving contrast or opposition.
- Example:
- 彼は私の意見に対して反対でした。
("He was opposed to my opinion.")
4. 〜として
- Meaning: "As" or "in the capacity of."
- Usage: This expression indicates the role or capacity in which someone or something is being considered or regarded.
- Example:
- 彼女は教師として働いています。
("She works as a teacher.")
5. 〜について
- Meaning: "About" or "concerning."
- Usage: This expression is used to indicate the topic or subject matter of discussion.