につれて (ni tsurete): As one thing changes, another changes too
～につれて (ni tsurete)
Meaning
As; in proportion to a gradual change
Formation and usage
Dictionary-form verb or noun describing change + につれて, followed by another developing change. につれ is a shorter variant.
Explanation
Describe two changes progressing together: as one develops, the other gradually changes too. The second clause is normally a natural change rather than an order or an immediate decision. It does not mean simply accompanying a person.
Examples
日本語に慣れるにつれて、会話が楽しくなりました。
As I became more comfortable with Japanese, conversation became more enjoyable.
日が暮れるにつれて、気温が下がってきました。
As evening fell, the temperature began to drop.
経験が増えるにつれて、自信もついてきます。
As experience grows, confidence gradually increases.
山を登るにつれて、空気が冷たくなりました。
As we climbed the mountain, the air became colder.
子供が成長するにつれて、家族の会話も変わります。
As children grow, conversations within the family also change.
How related patterns differ
につれて often links naturally developing changes. にともなって can introduce consequences or measures accompanying a change. にしたがって can also mean following instructions, and とともに can mean together with. つつある focuses on an ongoing process of change.