〜ように
〜ように in 30 Sekunden
- Expresses purpose or a desired state, often translated as 'so that' or 'in order to'.
- Used with potential verbs, negative forms, or non-volitional verbs to indicate a goal.
- Differs from 'tame ni' by focusing on states and outcomes rather than direct volitional actions.
- Commonly found in prayers, wishes, polite requests, and explanations of habits or efforts.
The Japanese expression 〜ように (yō ni) is a fundamental grammatical structure used to express purpose, intention, or a desired state. While it is often translated as "so that" or "in order to," its usage is distinct from other purpose-oriented expressions like 〜ために. At its core, 〜ように focuses on achieving a change in state or ensuring a specific outcome that is often beyond the immediate, direct control of the speaker, such as a habit, a physiological state, or the actions of others.
- The Concept of Purpose
- When you use 〜ように, you are setting a goal. This goal is frequently expressed using the potential form of a verb (can do) or a negative form (so that something does NOT happen). It creates a bridge between an action and the desired environment or state that action is intended to produce.
- The Nuance of Indirectness
- Unlike 〜ために, which implies a direct, volitional action to achieve a concrete objective (like buying a car), 〜ように is used for targets that are more like 'states of being.' For example, studying so that you can speak Japanese involves a process of acquisition, making 〜ように the appropriate choice.
忘れないように、メモを書いておきます。
(Wasurenai yō ni, memo o kaite okimasu.)
I will write a memo so that I don't forget.
In daily life, Japanese speakers use this expression constantly. It appears in instructions, prayers, personal goals, and polite requests. It softens the tone of a requirement by focusing on the desired outcome rather than the command itself. For instance, a teacher might say "so that everyone can see" rather than just "look at the board."
早く治るように祈っています。
(Hayaku naoru yō ni inotte imasu.)
I am praying so that you get well soon.
- Social Context
- In Japanese culture, where directness can sometimes be perceived as harsh, 〜ように serves as a linguistic buffer. By framing a request through the lens of a shared goal (e.g., "so that the meeting goes smoothly"), the speaker avoids sounding demanding.
皆さんに聞こえるように、マイクを使ってください。
(Minasan ni kikoeru yō ni, maiku o tsukatte kudasai.)
Please use a microphone so that everyone can hear you.
Furthermore, 〜ように is the standard form for making wishes during festivals like Tanabata. People write their desires on strips of paper (tanzaku), ending them with 〜ように to express a hope that a certain state of affairs will manifest in the future. This highlights the word's connection to aspiration and the unfolding of events.
家族が健康でいられますように。
(Kazoku ga kenkō de iraremasu yō ni.)
[I pray] so that my family can stay healthy.
In summary, 〜ように is a versatile tool that allows speakers to articulate the 'why' behind their actions, focusing on states, possibilities, and the prevention of negative outcomes. It is an essential bridge for moving beyond simple sentences into the realm of complex intentions and social harmony.
Mastering the use of 〜ように requires understanding the specific types of verbs that precede it. Unlike the volitional 〜ために, 〜ように is almost exclusively paired with non-volitional verbs, potential forms, or negative forms. This grammatical constraint is the key to using the expression naturally.
- Rule 1: Potential Verbs
- The most common pattern is [Potential Verb] + ように. This expresses the goal of becoming able to do something. For example, 話せるように (so that I can speak) or 買えるように (so that I can buy). This emphasizes the acquisition of an ability.
- Rule 2: Negative Verbs (Nai-form)
- To express the purpose of preventing something, use the negative form. [Verb Nai-form] + ように. For example, 遅れないように (so that I won't be late) or 風邪をひかないように (so that I don't catch a cold).
日本で生活できるように、漢字を勉強しています。
(Nihon de seikatsu dekiru yō ni, kanji o benkyō shite imasu.)
I am studying kanji so that I can live in Japan.
It is important to note that the verb in the second part of the sentence (the action taken) must be volitional. You are doing something on purpose to bring about the state mentioned before 〜ように. The structure is: [Desired State/Result] ように + [Volitional Action].
子供が野菜を食べるように、細かく切りました。
(Kodomo ga yasai o taberu yō ni, komakaku kirimashita.)
I cut the vegetables finely so that the child would eat them.
- Rule 3: Non-volitional Verbs
- Verbs that describe natural phenomena or states that happen without direct will, such as 治る (to heal), 届く (to reach/arrive), or わかる (to understand), are paired with ように.
後ろの人にも聞こえるように、大きな声で話しました。
(Ushiro no hito ni mo kikoeru yō ni, ōkina koe de hanashimashita.)
I spoke in a loud voice so that the people in the back could hear.
In formal writing or speeches, you might see 〜ますように at the end of a sentence. This is a polite way to express a wish or prayer. It functions as a complete sentence where the verb of 'praying' or 'wishing' is implied. This is very common in greeting cards or when visiting a shrine.
明日、雨が降らないように。
(Ashita, ame ga furanai yō ni.)
I hope it doesn't rain tomorrow.
By understanding these three primary rules—Potential verbs, Negative forms, and Non-volitional verbs—you can construct complex sentences that accurately reflect your intentions and goals in Japanese. This structure is a hallmark of intermediate (B1) proficiency, moving you toward more nuanced communication.
The expression 〜ように is ubiquitous in Japanese society, appearing in environments ranging from the highly spiritual to the mundane and professional. Because it deals with goals and outcomes, it is a key component of how Japanese people navigate social expectations and personal aspirations.
- In the Workplace
- In a Japanese office, you will hear 〜ように used to explain the rationale behind procedures. A manager might say, "We are double-checking the data so that no errors occur." This focuses on the collective goal of accuracy rather than blaming individuals for potential mistakes.
- At Shrines and Temples
- Visit any Shinto shrine, and you will see ema (wooden prayer plaques). Almost every prayer written on them ends in 〜ように. "May I pass the exam," "May my family be safe," and "May I find love" are all expressed using this grammar, often in the polite 〜ますように form.
試験に合格できますように。
(Shiken ni gōkaku dekimasu yō ni.)
May I be able to pass the exam.
In the realm of public service announcements, 〜ように is used to encourage civic behavior. On trains, you might hear announcements like "Please refrain from using mobile phones so that you do not bother other passengers." This framing makes the rule feel like a consideration for others rather than a strict prohibition.
他のお客様の迷惑にならないように、静かにしてください。
(Hoka no okyakusama no meiwaku ni naranai yō ni, shizuka ni shite kudasai.)
Please be quiet so as not to disturb other customers.
- In Parenting and Education
- Parents and teachers use 〜ように to guide children's behavior. "Eat your vegetables so that you grow big and strong" or "Walk slowly so that you don't fall." It helps children understand the consequences and purposes of their actions.
転ばないように、気をつけてね。
(Korobanai yō ni, ki o tsukete ne.)
Be careful so that you don't fall, okay?
Finally, in the world of media and advertising, 〜ように is used to promise results. A skincare product might claim to work "so that your skin becomes smooth." This focuses on the transformation and the end state, which is a powerful marketing tool. Whether you are reading a manual, listening to a sermon, or watching a commercial, 〜ように is the linguistic thread that connects current actions to future possibilities.
君がいつも笑顔でいられるように。
(Kimi ga itsumo egao de irareru yō ni.)
So that you can always be smiling.
By recognizing these contexts, you can start to feel the emotional and social weight that 〜ように carries, making your own use of the word more authentic and culturally resonant.
The most frequent mistake learners make with 〜ように is confusing it with 〜ために. While both can be translated as "in order to," they are not interchangeable. Understanding the distinction is vital for reaching an intermediate level of Japanese proficiency.
- Mistake 1: Using Volitional Verbs
- Learners often say *日本へ行くように、貯金します (Incorrect). Since "going to Japan" is a direct, volitional action, you must use 〜ために. The correct version is 日本へ行くために. Use 〜ように only when the first verb is potential, negative, or non-volitional.
- Mistake 2: Mixing Up Subjects
- In 〜ために sentences, the subject of both verbs is usually the same. In 〜ように sentences, the subjects can be different. For example, "I study so that my parents are happy." Here, the subjects are 'I' and 'parents,' making 〜ように the necessary choice.
❌ 車を買うように、働いています。
✅ 車を買うために、働いています。
(I am working in order to buy a car.)
Another common error is forgetting to use the potential form when expressing a goal of ability. Many students say *日本語を話すように勉強します. This sounds like you are studying to "act like you speak Japanese" or are being instructed to speak. To say you study to be able to speak, you must use 話せるように.
❌ 漢字を覚えるように、毎日書きます。
✅ 漢字を覚えられるように、毎日書きます。
(I write every day so that I can memorize kanji.)
- Mistake 3: Confusing 'Yoni' with 'Yoni Naru'
- Learners sometimes confuse 〜ように (purpose) with 〜ようになる (change in state). While related, 〜ようになる describes a result that has already happened or is happening, whereas 〜ように describes the intention behind an action.
最近、刺身が食べられるようになりました。
(Recently, I have become able to eat sashimi.)
*This is a result, not a purpose.*
Lastly, be careful with the negative form. Students often use 〜ないために when they should use 〜ないように. In Japanese, preventing a negative outcome is almost always viewed as a "state to be avoided," which requires 〜ように. For example, 遅れないように is much more natural than 遅れないために.
By being mindful of these common pitfalls, you will avoid the "unnatural" sounding Japanese that often plagues intermediate learners and move closer to native-like fluency.
While 〜ように is a primary way to express purpose, Japanese offers several other structures that overlap in meaning but differ in nuance, formality, and grammatical constraints. Understanding these alternatives will help you choose the right word for the right situation.
- 〜ために (Tame ni)
- The most common alternative. Use 〜ために for volitional, concrete actions where the subject of both parts of the sentence is the same. It sounds more direct and determined than 〜ように.
Example: 家を買うために貯金する (Saving money to buy a house). - 〜べく (Beku)
- A very formal, literary version of 〜ために. You will see this in written reports or historical contexts. It implies a strong sense of duty or a high-level objective.
Example: 平和を守るべく (In order to protect the peace).
健康のために、毎日走っています。
(I run every day for the sake of my health.)
*Focus on the benefit/reason.*
When it comes to giving instructions or making requests, 〜ように has a few close relatives:
- 〜ようにと (Yō ni to)
- Used when quoting a request or an instruction given by someone else. The と acts as a quotation particle.
Example: 忘れないようにと言われました (I was told not to forget). - 〜ようにする (Yō ni suru)
- This means "to make an effort to" or "to try to." It describes a habitual effort to achieve a state.
Example: 野菜を食べるようにしています (I am making an effort to eat vegetables).
明日から早く起きるようにします。
(I will make an effort to wake up early from tomorrow.)
In very formal or archaic Japanese, you might encounter 〜んがため, which is a classical version of 〜ために. While you won't use this in conversation, recognizing it in literature can be helpful. For most B1-B2 learners, the primary task is distinguishing 〜ように from 〜ために and 〜ようにする.
- Summary Table
-
- ように: States, potential, negative, different subjects.
- ために: Actions, volitional, same subject, concrete benefit.
- ようにする: Habitual effort, making sure something happens.
- べく: Formal/Written 'tame ni'.
By choosing the correct structure, you demonstrate not just grammatical knowledge, but a deep understanding of Japanese logic and social nuance.
How Formal Is It?
"皆様にご理解いただけますように、詳細を説明いたします。"
"忘れないようにメモしておきます。"
"遅れないようにね!"
"大きくなれるように、お野菜食べようね。"
"バレないようにやれよ。"
Wusstest du?
The kanji for 'yō' (様) is the same one used for the honorific '-sama'. This shows the deep connection between 'appearance/form' and 'status/respect' in Japanese culture.
Aussprachehilfe
- Pronouncing 'yo' as a short 'o' like 'hot'.
- Pronouncing 'ni' as 'nye' like 'night'.
- Adding a pause between 'yo' and 'ni'.
- Stressing the 'ni' too heavily.
- Mumbling the 'u' in 'yō', making it sound too short.
Schwierigkeitsgrad
Easy to recognize, but must distinguish from 'likeness' usage.
Requires correct verb conjugation (potential/negative).
Choosing between 'yoni' and 'tame ni' in real-time is a common hurdle.
Common in speech, usually clear from context.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
Potential Form + ように
読めるように練習する。
Nai-form + ように
忘れないようにメモする。
Non-volitional Verb + ように
雨が降るように祈る。
Polite Masu-form + ように (Wish)
合格しますように。
Indirect Request (ように言う/頼む)
来るように伝えた。
Beispiele nach Niveau
忘れないように、メモを書きます。
I write a memo so I don't forget.
Negative verb (wasurenai) + yoni.
遅れないように、早く起きます。
I wake up early so I won't be late.
Negative verb (okurenai) + yoni.
風邪をひかないように、手を洗います。
I wash my hands so I don't catch a cold.
Negative verb (hikanai) + yoni.
テストで間違えないように、よく読みます。
I read carefully so I don't make mistakes on the test.
Negative verb (machigaenai) + yoni.
病気が治るように、薬を飲みます。
I take medicine so that my illness heals.
Non-volitional verb (naoru) + yoni.
明日、晴れるように祈ります。
I pray so that it will be sunny tomorrow.
Non-volitional verb (hareru) + yoni.
おなかがすかないように、たくさん食べました。
I ate a lot so I wouldn't get hungry.
Negative verb (sukanai) + yoni.
迷わないように、地図を見ます。
I look at the map so I don't get lost.
Negative verb (mayowanai) + yoni.
日本語が話せるように、毎日練習します。
I practice every day so that I can speak Japanese.
Potential verb (hanaseru) + yoni.
漢字が書けるように、ノートに書きます。
I write in my notebook so that I can write kanji.
Potential verb (kakeru) + yoni.
後ろの人にも聞こえるように、大きく話してください。
Please speak loudly so that the people in the back can hear.
Potential/Non-volitional (kikoeru) + yoni.
子供でも読めるように、ふりがなを振ります。
I will add furigana so that even children can read it.
Potential verb (yomeru) + yoni.
よく見えるように、眼鏡をかけます。
I put on glasses so that I can see well.
Potential/Non-volitional (mieru) + yoni.
早く泳げるように、プールに通っています。
I go to the pool so that I can swim fast.
Potential verb (oyogeru) + yoni.
日本のアニメがわかるように、勉強しています。
I am studying so that I can understand Japanese anime.
Non-volitional verb (wakaru) + yoni.
料理が上手になるように、教室に行きます。
I go to a class so that I become good at cooking.
Non-volitional state (naru) + yoni.
皆さんがリラックスできるように、音楽をかけましょう。
Let's play music so that everyone can relax.
Potential verb (dekiru) + yoni.
泥棒に入られないように、鍵を二つ付けました。
I installed two locks so that a thief won't enter.
Passive negative (hairarenai) + yoni.
家族が安心して暮らせるように、一生懸命働きます。
I work hard so that my family can live in peace.
Potential verb (kuraseru) + yoni.
大切な書類をなくさないように、ファイルに入れました。
I put the important documents in a file so as not to lose them.
Negative verb (nakusanai) + yoni.
会議がスムーズに進むように、準備をしておきます。
I will prepare so that the meeting proceeds smoothly.
Non-volitional (susumu) + yoni.
電車に間に合うように、走って駅へ行きました。
I ran to the station so as to be in time for the train.
Non-volitional (maniau) + yoni.
喉が痛くならないように、加湿器を使っています。
I use a humidifier so that my throat doesn't get sore.
Negative state (naranai) + yoni.
新しい仕事が早く覚えられるように、メモを取ります。
I take notes so that I can learn the new job quickly.
Potential passive (oboerareru) + yoni.
地球温暖化が進まないように、環境保護活動に参加しています。
I participate in environmental activities so that global warming doesn't progress.
Negative non-volitional (susumanai) + yoni.
誤解を招かないように、言葉を選んで話す必要があります。
It is necessary to choose words carefully so as not to cause misunderstanding.
Negative volitional/state (manikanai) + yoni.
後で困ることがないように、契約書をよく確認してください。
Please check the contract carefully so that you won't have trouble later.
Negative state (nai) + yoni.
世界が平和になりますように、心から願っています。
I sincerely hope that the world becomes peaceful.
Polite wish (nari-masu yoni).
誰にも気づかれないように、そっと部屋を出ました。
I quietly left the room so that no one would notice.
Passive negative (kizukarenai) + yoni.
計画が予定通りに実行されるように、指示を出しました。
I gave instructions so that the plan would be executed as scheduled.
Passive potential/state (jikkō sareru) + yoni.
火事にならないように、火の元には十分注意してください。
Please be very careful with fire so that a fire doesn't start.
Negative state (naranai) + yoni.
彼がショックを受けないように、優しく伝えました。
I told him gently so that he wouldn't be shocked.
Negative state (ukenai) + yoni.
この伝統が次世代に引き継がれるように、記録を残すべきだ。
We should leave records so that this tradition is passed on to the next generation.
Passive state (hikitsugareru) + yoni.
不測の事態にも対応できるように、複数のシナリオを用意している。
We have prepared multiple scenarios so that we can respond to unforeseen circumstances.
Potential verb (taiō dekiru) + yoni.
国民の生活がより豊かになるように、政策が打ち出された。
Policies were launched so that the lives of the citizens would become more prosperous.
Non-volitional state (naru) + yoni.
冤罪が生まれないように、司法制度の改革が求められている。
Reform of the judicial system is required so that false accusations do not occur.
Negative non-volitional (umarenai) + yoni.
読者に深い感銘を与えるように、言葉を尽くして描写した。
I described it with every word possible so as to deeply move the reader.
Volitional state (ataeru) + yoni.
技術が流出しないように、厳重なセキュリティ体制を敷いている。
We have established a strict security system so that technology does not leak.
Negative non-volitional (ryūshutsu shinai) + yoni.
紛争が一日も早く解決するように、国際社会が協力している。
The international community is cooperating so that the conflict is resolved as soon as possible.
Non-volitional state (kaiketsu suru) + yoni.
子供たちが夢を持てるように、教育環境を整える必要がある。
It is necessary to improve the educational environment so that children can have dreams.
Potential verb (moteru) + yoni.
万が一の際にも遺族が路頭に迷わないように、信託を設定した。
I set up a trust so that, in the unlikely event of my death, my bereaved family would not be left destitute.
Negative state (mayowanai) + yoni.
真実が歴史の闇に葬られないように、証言を記録し続ける。
I will continue to record testimonies so that the truth is not buried in the darkness of history.
Passive negative (hōmuranai) + yoni.
経済の均衡が崩れないように、中央銀行は慎重な舵取りを迫られている。
The central bank is forced to steer carefully so that the economic balance is not disrupted.
Negative non-volitional (kuzurenai) + yoni.
誰もが尊厳を持って生きられるように、社会の在り方を問い直す。
We will re-examine the state of society so that everyone can live with dignity.
Potential verb (ikirareru) + yoni.
芸術の本質が損なわれないように、修復作業には細心の注意が払われた。
Meticulous care was taken in the restoration work so that the essence of the art would not be compromised.
Passive negative (sokonawanai) + yoni.
新薬の副作用が最小限に抑えられるように、臨床試験が繰り返された。
Clinical trials were repeated so that the side effects of the new drug would be minimized.
Passive potential (osaerareru) + yoni.
自由な競争が阻害されないように、独占禁止法が厳格に適用される。
Antitrust laws are strictly applied so that free competition is not hindered.
Passive negative (sogai sarenai) + yoni.
未来の世代が豊かな自然を享受できるように、我々は今行動すべきだ。
We should act now so that future generations can enjoy rich nature.
Potential verb (kyōju dekiru) + yoni.
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
〜ますように
〜ように言う
〜ようにする
〜ようになる
〜ように頼む
〜ように見える
〜ように感じる
〜ように願う
〜ように注意する
〜ように伝える
Wird oft verwechselt mit
Tame ni is for volitional actions; Yoni is for states and potential/negative outcomes.
Yoni can also mean 'like' or 'as if' (e.g., 'Yume no yoni' - like a dream).
The volitional form (e.g., 'Ikō') sounds similar but is used for 'Let's' or 'I will'.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
"祈るように"
Doing something with a prayer-like intensity or desperation.
彼女は祈るように空を見上げた。
Literary"なだめるように"
In a soothing or pacifying manner.
彼は子供をなだめるように話した。
Neutral"諭すように"
In a way that gently admonishes or teaches a lesson.
父は諭すように私に語りかけた。
Formal"突き放すように"
In a cold, detached, or rejecting manner.
彼女は突き放すように「関係ない」と言った。
Neutral"言い聞かせるように"
In a way that tries to persuade or make someone understand.
自分に言い聞かせるように呟いた。
Neutral"這うように"
In a crawling manner, often implying great effort or difficulty.
這うようにして山を登った。
Literary"流れるように"
In a smooth, fluid, or effortless manner.
流れるようにピアノを弾いた。
Neutral"吸い込まれるように"
As if being sucked in; irresistibly drawn to something.
吸い込まれるように店に入った。
Neutral"弾かれるように"
As if repelled or suddenly jumping back.
弾かれるように立ち上がった。
Literary"溶け込むように"
In a way that blends in perfectly with the surroundings.
景色に溶け込むように建っている家。
NeutralLeicht verwechselbar
Both mean 'in order to'.
Tame ni is for direct actions (buying a car), while Yoni is for states (being able to drive).
車を買うために働く vs 運転できるように練習する
Contains the word 'yoni'.
Yoni is the purpose; Yoni suru is the effort/habit itself.
忘れないようにメモする vs メモを取るようにしている
Contains the word 'yoni'.
Yoni is the purpose; Yoni naru is the result/change.
話せるように勉強する vs 話せるようになった
Contains the word 'yoni'.
Yoni is the purpose; Yoni iu is an indirect command.
遅れないように急ぐ vs 遅れないように言う
Same root 'yō'.
Yoni is purpose/manner; Yō da is 'it seems like'.
合格するように祈る vs 合格したようだ
Satzmuster
V-nai ように、V
忘れないように、書きます。
V-potential ように、V
話せるように、練習します。
V-non-volitional ように、V
聞こえるように、大きく言います。
V-ように する
毎日歩くようにしています。
V-ように なる
泳げるようになりました。
V-ように 祈る/願う
成功するように祈っています。
V-ます ように
幸せになれますように。
V-passive ように、V
悪用されないように、管理する。
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Adjektive
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
Extremely high in both spoken and written Japanese.
-
日本へ行くように、お金を貯めます。
→
日本へ行くために、お金を貯めます。
'Going to Japan' is a volitional action. Use 'tame ni'.
-
日本語を話すように、毎日勉強します。
→
日本語を話せるように、毎日勉強します。
Use the potential form 'hanaseru' to express the goal of ability.
-
遅れないために、早く家を出ました。
→
遅れないように、早く家を出ました。
Negative purposes (prevention) almost always use 'yoni'.
-
病気が治るために、薬を飲みます。
→
病気が治るように、薬を飲みます。
'Healing' is a non-volitional state. Use 'yoni'.
-
彼が来るために、電話しました。
→
彼が来るように、電話しました。
When the subjects are different (I called, HE comes), use 'yoni'.
Tipps
The Potential Rule
Always try to use the potential form (can do) before 'yoni' when expressing a goal of ability. It sounds much more natural than the dictionary form.
Softening Requests
Use 'yoni' to frame requests as goals. Instead of 'Please listen', say 'So that everyone can hear, please speak loudly'.
Tanabata Wishes
If you ever write a wish on a strip of paper, end it with '〜ように'. It's the culturally perfect way to express a hope.
Catch the 'Nai'
When you hear 'nai yoni', immediately think 'prevention'. The speaker is doing something to avoid a specific problem.
Yoni vs Tame ni
If you can't decide, check the verb. If it's a 'state' (like 'being able to' or 'not being late'), use 'yoni'.
Shrine Etiquette
When visiting a shrine, you can whisper your wish ending in 'yoni' to yourself. It's a common practice.
Yoni = Yielding Outcomes
Think of 'Yoni' as 'Yielding Outcomes'. It's about the result you want to yield from your actions.
Business Harmony
In meetings, use 'yoni' to explain why you are suggesting a change. It makes you sound like a team player.
Passive + Yoni
Using the passive form before 'yoni' (e.g., 'shikararenai yoni' - so I don't get scolded) is very common and natural.
The 'Can' Test
If you can translate the purpose as 'so that I CAN...', you almost certainly need 'yoni'.
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Think of 'YO-NI' as 'Your Objective is Now Indicated'. It points to the goal you want to reach.
Visuelle Assoziation
Imagine a bridge connecting your current action (studying) to a thought bubble of you speaking Japanese. The bridge is labeled 'YONI'.
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to write three sentences about your Japanese learning goals using 'yoni' with potential verbs (e.g., 'yomeru yoni').
Wortherkunft
Derived from the classical Japanese noun '様' (yō), which originally meant 'appearance' or 'form'. Over time, it evolved into a grammatical particle to express similarity and then purpose.
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Appearance, manner, or likeness.
JaponicKultureller Kontext
When making wishes for others, using 'yoni' is very polite. However, using it to command someone in a lower social position can still feel like a command, even if softened.
English speakers often use 'to' or 'so that' interchangeably, but in Japanese, the choice between 'yoni' and 'tame ni' is strictly governed by the type of verb used.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
Studying/Learning
- 合格できるように
- 話せるように
- 覚えられるように
- 間違えないように
Health/Safety
- 風邪をひかないように
- 怪我をしないように
- 早く治るように
- 太らないように
Work/Business
- 間に合うように
- ミスがないように
- スムーズに進むように
- 誤解されないように
Social Situations
- 迷惑をかけないように
- 嫌われないように
- 喜んでもらえるように
- 失礼にならないように
Wishes/Prayers
- 幸せになれるように
- 平和になるように
- 成功しますように
- 晴れますように
Gesprächseinstiege
"日本語がもっと上手に話せるように、どんなことをしていますか?"
"将来、日本で働けるように、今何を準備していますか?"
"健康でいられるように、毎日気をつけていることはありますか?"
"試験に合格できるように、一緒に勉強しませんか?"
"明日、晴れるようにてるてる坊主を作りましょうか?"
Tagebuch-Impulse
一年後、日本語でどんなことができるようになりたいですか?そのために今何をするべきですか?
あなたが大切にしている人が、いつも笑顔でいられるように、あなたができることは何ですか?
仕事や勉強でミスをしないように、あなたが工夫していることを書いてください。
子供の頃、親に「〜するように」と言われて嫌だったこと、または感謝していることはありますか?
世界がより良くなるように、私たちはどのような行動をとるべきだと思いますか?
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenGenerally, no. If you want to say 'in order to eat', you should use 'taberu tame ni'. However, you can use 'taberareru yoni' (so that I can eat) or 'tabenai yoni' (so that I don't eat). Using 'taberu yoni' usually implies an instruction or a specific manner.
'Yoni' expresses purpose. 'Yoni to' is used when quoting a purpose or a wish, often followed by verbs like 'inoru' (pray) or 'iu' (say). For example, 'Gōkaku suru yoni to inotta' (I prayed so that I would pass).
Yes, 'yoni' is neutral and polite. In very formal situations, ending a wish with '〜ますように' is the standard polite way to express a hope.
Shrine prayers (ema) use 'yoni' because they are expressing a desired state or outcome that the person is asking the gods to help manifest.
Yes, 'yoni' has a second meaning: 'like' or 'in the manner of'. For example, 'Kame no yoni noroi' (Slow like a turtle). Context usually makes it clear which meaning is intended.
Use 'tame ni' when you are performing a volitional action to achieve a concrete goal, and the subject of both verbs is the same. Example: 'Kaimono no tame ni dekakeru' (Go out for shopping).
Very often. It is used to explain the rationale behind rules, to give soft instructions to subordinates, and to express hopes for the company's success.
Not usually. It is a conjunctive structure that follows a verb. However, you might see 'Kono yoni...' (In this way...) at the start of a sentence.
It is a polite way to say 'Please make sure to...' or 'Please try to...'. It focuses on the result of the person's effort.
Use the Nai-form of the verb followed by 'yoni'. Example: 'Wasurenai yoni' (So that I don't forget).
Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen
Write a sentence: 'I study so that I can speak Japanese.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I write a memo so I don't forget.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'Please speak loudly so that everyone can hear.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I wake up early so I won't be late.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I hope you get well soon.' (Using yoni)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I wash my hands so I don't catch a cold.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I practice so that I can swim fast.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I use a map so I don't get lost.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I study kanji so that I can live in Japan.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I hope it will be sunny tomorrow.' (Shrine wish style)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I work hard so that my family can live in peace.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I cut the vegetables small so the child will eat them.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I take notes so that I can learn the job quickly.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I use a humidifier so my throat doesn't get sore.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I pray for world peace.' (Using yoni)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I ran so as to be in time for the train.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I put on glasses so that I can see well.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I study so that I can understand anime.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I am careful so that I don't make mistakes.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I pray that I can pass the exam.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Say: 'I study so that I can speak Japanese.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I write a memo so I don't forget.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Please speak loudly so everyone can hear.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I wake up early so I won't be late.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I hope you get well soon.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I wash my hands so I don't catch a cold.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I practice so that I can swim fast.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I use a map so I don't get lost.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I study kanji so that I can live in Japan.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'May you pass the exam.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I work hard so my family can live in peace.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I cut the vegetables small so the child will eat them.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I take notes so I can learn the job quickly.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I use a humidifier so my throat doesn't get sore.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I pray for world peace.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I ran so as to be in time for the train.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I put on glasses so that I can see well.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I study so that I can understand anime.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I am careful so that I don't make mistakes.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'I pray that I can pass the exam.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Wasurenai yō ni memo o kakimashita.'
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Hanaseru yō ni renshū shite imasu.'
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Kikoeru yō ni ōkina koe de hanashite.'
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Okurenai yō ni hayaku okimashita.'
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Naoru yō ni inotte imasu.'
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Hikanai yō ni te o araimasu.'
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Oyogeru yō ni renshū shimasu.'
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Mayowanai yō ni chizu o mimasu.'
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Seikatsu dekiru yō ni kanji o oboemasu.'
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Gōkaku shimasu yō ni.'
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Kuraseru yō ni hatarakimasu.'
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Taberu yō ni yasai o kirimasu.'
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Oboerareru yō ni memo o torimasu.'
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Naranai yō ni kashitsuki o tsukaimasu.'
Listen and identify the purpose: 'Heiwa ni naru yō ni inorimasu.'
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The expression <span class='font-bold italic'>〜ように</span> is your go-to structure for expressing goals that involve a change in state or ability. Remember the golden rule: use it with the potential form (can do) or the negative form (don't do). For example: <span class='italic'>話せるように勉強する</span> (Study so that I can speak).
- Expresses purpose or a desired state, often translated as 'so that' or 'in order to'.
- Used with potential verbs, negative forms, or non-volitional verbs to indicate a goal.
- Differs from 'tame ni' by focusing on states and outcomes rather than direct volitional actions.
- Commonly found in prayers, wishes, polite requests, and explanations of habits or efforts.
The Potential Rule
Always try to use the potential form (can do) before 'yoni' when expressing a goal of ability. It sounds much more natural than the dictionary form.
Softening Requests
Use 'yoni' to frame requests as goals. Instead of 'Please listen', say 'So that everyone can hear, please speak loudly'.
Tanabata Wishes
If you ever write a wish on a strip of paper, end it with '〜ように'. It's the culturally perfect way to express a hope.
Catch the 'Nai'
When you hear 'nai yoni', immediately think 'prevention'. The speaker is doing something to avoid a specific problem.
Verwandte Inhalte
Dieses Wort in anderen Sprachen
Ähnliche Regeln
Mehr health Wörter
しばらく
B1Eine Weile, einige Zeit.
異変がある
B1To have an unusual change or abnormality.
異常な
B1Abnormal; ungewöhnlich. Beschreibt etwas, das auf besorgniserregende Weise von der Norm abweicht.
擦り傷
B1Scratch, graze, abrasion.
吸収する
B1To absorb.
禁酒
B1Abstinence from alcohol; the act of refraining from alcohol.
痛む
A2to hurt; to ache
鍼灸
B1Acupuncture and moxibustion; traditional Chinese medicine treatments.
急性的
B1Acute.
急性な
B1Acute