Japanese grammar · ≈ JLPT N3 · Intermediate 2

〜につれて~ni tsurete

gradual changes happening together

Use 〜につれて when one steady change progresses and another changes along with it, often gradually.

How it works

Look at the two rows: as time passes, the pain gets stronger. The two changes progress together.
As treatment progresses, the ability to walk gradually returns. This pattern also works for improvements that happen together.
The first part describes a steady change in one direction; the second changes along with it. They need not both increase or both decrease.
Put the verb in the first part in its dictionary form, then add 「につれて」, as with 「たつ」 in the picture.
As taking medicine and resting continues, the pain gradually fades. The second part can also describe something weakening.
The key is that changes happen gradually together. One event simply happening after another is not enough to use this pattern.

Level 1 · Recognise
Which sentence is correct?
Level 1 · Recognise
Listen and choose the meaning
Level 2 · Build
Put the words in order
As the affected area healed, the numbness gradually went away.
Level 3 · Use
What goes in the blank?
時間がたつ____、足の痛みが強くなってきました。
As time passed, the pain in my foot grew stronger.