~を目的として
With the purpose of, aiming at; having a specific goal.
~を目的として en 30 segundos
- ~を目的として is a formal expression meaning 'with the purpose of' or 'aiming at.'
- It is primarily used in business, news, academic writing, and official announcements.
- Grammatically, it follows a noun or a nominalized verb (Verb + こと).
- It implies a strategic, planned objective rather than a simple personal desire.
The phrase ~を目的として is a formal Japanese expression used to indicate the primary goal, objective, or intention behind an action. In English, it is most accurately translated as "with the purpose of," "aiming at," or "for the objective of." It consists of the noun 目的 (mokuteki), meaning 'purpose' or 'goal,' the object marker を, and the phrase として, which functions like 'as' or 'in the capacity of.' Together, they create a structure that explicitly labels the preceding noun as the reason for the subsequent activity.
- Grammatical Function
- It functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the main verb of the sentence to explain 'why' something is being done in a structured, intentional manner.
- Level of Formality
- This expression is highly formal. You will encounter it frequently in business documents, academic papers, news reports, and official announcements. It is rarely used in casual conversation between friends.
- Semantic Range
- While 'tame ni' also means 'for,' '~wo mokuteki to shite' implies a more strategic, defined, and often institutional goal rather than a personal desire.
この会議は、新プロジェクトの進捗状況を共有することを目的として開催されました。
環境保護を目的として、新しい法律が制定された。
- Visualizing the Goal
- Imagine an archer aiming at a target (Mato). The 'Mokuteki' is that target. This phrase focuses the listener's attention entirely on that target before explaining the action taken to hit it.
Using ~を目的として requires a clear understanding of noun-based structures. Because 'mokuteki' is a noun, it must be preceded by another noun or a nominalized verb phrase. The basic pattern is [Noun] + を目的として. If you are using a verb, the pattern becomes [Verb Dictionary Form] + こと + を目的として.
1. Direct Noun Usage
This is the most common form in business and legal contexts. You identify a specific concept (e.g., 'profit,' 'education,' 'research') and attach the phrase directly.
- 収益の拡大を目的として (Aiming for the expansion of profits)
- 健康増進を目的として (With the goal of health promotion)
2. Verb Nominalization
When the purpose is an action, you must use 'koto'. This allows you to describe more complex goals.
- 技術を向上させることを目的として (With the purpose of improving technology)
- 情報を収集することを目的として (With the aim of collecting information)
3. Variations: ~を目的とする / ~が目的で
Depending on the sentence structure, you might see variations:
- ~を目的とする [Noun]
- Used as an adjective phrase to modify a noun. Example: 「再開発を目的とする計画」(A plan aimed at redevelopment).
- ~を目的とした [Noun]
- Similar to the above, but often used for completed or established objectives. Example: 「教育を目的としたアプリ」(An app designed for education).
You will rarely hear ~を目的として at a dinner party or while hanging out with friends. Its natural habitat is the professional and public sphere. Understanding where it appears helps you gauge the appropriate register for your own Japanese output.
1. Corporate and Business Settings
In meetings, presentations, and annual reports, this phrase is the gold standard for explaining strategy. Companies use it to justify investments, restructuring, or new product launches.
「弊社は、顧客満足度の向上を目的として、新しいカスタマーサポートシステムを導入いたしました。」
2. News and Journalism
News anchors use this phrase to explain the intent behind government actions, international treaties, or police investigations. It provides a neutral, objective tone.
「政府は、少子化対策を目的として、新しい助成金制度を検討しています。」
3. Academic and Scientific Research
In the 'Introduction' or 'Abstract' of a research paper, scholars use this to define their research question or the goal of their experiment.
- Research Papers
- 「本研究は、都市部の気温上昇のメカニズムを解明することを目的として行われた。」 (This study was conducted with the aim of elucidating the mechanism of temperature rise in urban areas.)
While the grammar is relatively straightforward, the most common mistakes involve register mismatch and incorrect nominalization.
1. Using it for Casual Actions
Do not use this for everyday personal errands. It sounds bizarrely formal, like a robot or a legal document.
- ❌ 牛乳を買うことを目的として、スーパーに行きました。 (I went to the supermarket with the objective of purchasing milk.)
- ✅ 牛乳を買いに、スーパーに行きました。 (I went to the supermarket to buy milk.)
2. Forgetting 'Koto' with Verbs
You cannot attach 'wo mokuteki to shite' directly to a verb. It must be a noun phrase.
- ❌ 日本へ留学するを目的として...
- ✅ 日本へ留学することを目的として... (With the purpose of studying abroad in Japan...)
3. Confusing with '~のために'
While often interchangeable, '~no tame ni' is broader. '~wo mokuteki to shite' is strictly for the objective. If you are doing something for the benefit of someone (e.g., 'for my mother'), you must use '~no tame ni'.
- ❌ 母を目的として、プレゼントを買った。 (Incorrect: My mother is not an 'objective' or 'purpose' in this sense.)
- ✅ 母のために、プレゼントを買った。 (I bought a present for my mother.)
Japanese has several ways to express purpose. Choosing the right one depends on your intent and the level of formality required.
- ~のために (No tame ni)
- The most versatile phrase. It can mean 'for the purpose of,' 'for the benefit of,' or 'because of.' It is less formal than '~wo mokuteki to shite'.
- ~を目指して (Wo mezashite)
- Focuses on the direction or the 'vision.' It literally means 'aiming for [a place/goal].' It feels more aspirational and active. Example: 「優勝を目指して練習する」(Practice aiming for the championship).
- ~を狙って (Wo neratte)
- Means 'targeting' or 'aiming at' (like a predator or a marksman). It can sometimes have a slightly negative or calculating nuance, like 'targeting a specific market gap' or 'aiming for a prize.'
- ~べく (Beku)
- A very formal, literary expression used in writing. It is similar to 'in order to.' Example: 「恩を返すべく努力する」(Work hard in order to repay a favor).
Comparison Table
| Phrase | Formality | Nuance |
|---|---|---|
| ~を目的として | High | Official, Strategic, Clear Target |
| ~のために | Medium | General, Personal, Beneficiary |
| ~を目指して | Medium-High | Aspirational, Directional |
How Formal Is It?
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Nivel de dificultad
Gramática que debes saber
Ejemplos por nivel
日本へ行く目的は何ですか?
What is your purpose for going to Japan?
Simple use of 'mokuteki' as a noun.
健康を目的として歩きます。
I walk for the purpose of health.
Noun + wo mokuteki to shite.
勉強を目的として図書館に行きます。
I go to the library with the purpose of studying.
Noun + wo mokuteki to shite.
このアプリは、日本語の練習を目的としています。
This app is for the purpose of Japanese practice.
Using 'mokuteki to shite imasu' as a state.
平和を目的として話し合います。
We talk with the purpose of peace.
Abstract noun + wo mokuteki to shite.
交流を目的としてパーティーを開きます。
We hold a party for the purpose of interaction.
Noun + wo mokuteki to shite.
貯金を目的としてアルバイトをします。
I do a part-time job with the purpose of saving money.
Noun + wo mokuteki to shite.
観光を目的として京都を訪れました。
I visited Kyoto for the purpose of sightseeing.
Noun + wo mokuteki to shite.
環境を守ることを目的として、ゴミを拾います。
I pick up trash with the purpose of protecting the environment.
Verb + koto + wo mokuteki to shite.
新しい友達を作ることを目的として、サークルに入りました。
I joined a club with the aim of making new friends.
Verb + koto + wo mokuteki to shite.
この会は、地域の安全を目的として作られました。
This group was created for the purpose of regional safety.
Passive verb + wo mokuteki to shite.
ダイエットを目的として、毎日走っています。
I run every day with the goal of dieting.
Noun + wo mokuteki to shite.
技術を学ぶことを目的として、日本に来ました。
I came to Japan with the purpose of learning technology.
Verb + koto + wo mokuteki to shite.
この本は、子供の教育を目的として書かれました。
This book was written for the purpose of children's education.
Noun + wo mokuteki to shite.
交流を深めることを目的として、旅行を計画しました。
I planned a trip with the aim of deepening our interaction.
Verb + koto + wo mokuteki to shite.
再利用を目的として、古い服を集めています。
I am collecting old clothes for the purpose of recycling.
Noun + wo mokuteki to shite.
コスト削減を目的として、業務プロセスを見直した。
We reviewed business processes with the aim of reducing costs.
Professional business context.
このセミナーは、リーダーシップの向上を目的として開催されます。
This seminar is held with the purpose of improving leadership.
Formal announcement style.
情報の共有を目的として、社内ポータルサイトを立ち上げた。
We launched an internal portal site for the purpose of sharing information.
IT/Corporate context.
地域の活性化を目的として、新しい祭りを始めた。
We started a new festival with the goal of revitalizing the region.
Social/Public policy context.
研究データの収集を目的として、アンケート調査を行った。
We conducted a survey for the purpose of collecting research data.
Academic/Research context.
相互理解を目的として、異文化交流イベントを企画した。
We planned a cross-cultural exchange event with the aim of mutual understanding.
Abstract goal + wo mokuteki to shite.
販路の拡大を目的として、海外の展示会に出展した。
We exhibited at an overseas trade fair with the purpose of expanding sales channels.
Business expansion context.
品質の安定を目的として、新しい機械を導入した。
We introduced new machinery with the aim of stabilizing quality.
Manufacturing/Technical context.
待機児童の解消を目的として、保育所の増設が進められている。
The expansion of nurseries is being promoted with the aim of eliminating the waiting list for children.
Social issue context.
不祥事の再発防止を目的として、内部統制を強化した。
Internal controls were strengthened with the purpose of preventing the recurrence of scandals.
Corporate governance context.
この法律は、個人情報の保護を目的として制定された。
This law was enacted for the purpose of protecting personal information.
Legal/Legislative context.
ブランドイメージの刷新を目的として、ロゴデザインを変更した。
The logo design was changed with the aim of refreshing the brand image.
Marketing context.
若手社員の育成を目的として、メンター制度を導入した。
A mentor system was introduced with the purpose of nurturing young employees.
Human resources context.
国際競争力の強化を目的として、企業合併が行われた。
A corporate merger was carried out with the aim of strengthening international competitiveness.
Economic/Business context.
犯罪の抑止を目的として、街頭に防犯カメラを設置した。
Security cameras were installed on the streets with the purpose of deterring crime.
Public safety context.
エネルギー消費の削減を目的として、全館LED照明に切り替えた。
We switched to LED lighting throughout the building with the goal of reducing energy consumption.
Environmental/Facility management.
本協定は、両国間の経済連携の強化を目的として締結されたものである。
This agreement was concluded with the purpose of strengthening economic partnership between the two countries.
Diplomatic/Formal written style.
市場の独占を防止することを目的として、公正取引委員会が調査を開始した。
The Fair Trade Commission began an investigation with the aim of preventing market monopoly.
Regulatory/Legal context.
本研究は、アルツハイマー病の早期発見を目的として、新たな診断手法を提案する。
This study proposes a new diagnostic method with the aim of early detection of Alzheimer's disease.
Academic paper abstract style.
組織の透明性を高めることを目的として、情報公開制度が導入された。
An information disclosure system was introduced with the purpose of increasing organizational transparency.
Governance/Administrative context.
文化遺産の保護を目的として、ユネスコとの協力体制を構築した。
A cooperative framework with UNESCO was established for the purpose of protecting cultural heritage.
International relations context.
株主価値の最大化を目的として、経営戦略の抜本的な見直しを図る。
We aim for a fundamental review of management strategy with the goal of maximizing shareholder value.
Executive business context.
格差の是正を目的として、累進課税制度の強化が議論されている。
Strengthening the progressive tax system is being discussed with the aim of correcting inequality.
Political/Economic theory context.
生物多様性の維持を目的として、特定の海域を保護区に指定した。
Specific sea areas were designated as protected zones with the purpose of maintaining biodiversity.
Environmental science context.
真理の探究を目的として、彼は生涯を研究に捧げた。
He dedicated his life to research with the purpose of seeking the truth.
Philosophical/Biographical context.
社会秩序の維持を目的として行使される公権力には、厳格な制約が課されるべきである。
Strict constraints should be imposed on public power exercised for the purpose of maintaining social order.
Legal philosophy/Political science.
本事業は、伝統文化の継承と発展を目的として、多角的な支援を展開している。
This project develops multifaceted support with the aim of the succession and development of traditional culture.
High-level cultural policy.
人類の福祉に貢献することを目的として、その財団は設立された。
The foundation was established with the purpose of contributing to the welfare of humanity.
Philanthropic context.
言論の自由を担保することを目的として、憲法には表現の自由に関する規定が置かれている。
Provisions regarding freedom of expression are placed in the Constitution with the purpose of guaranteeing freedom of speech.
Constitutional law context.
持続可能な社会の実現を目的として、サーキュラーエコノミーへの移行が急務となっている。
Transitioning to a circular economy has become an urgent task with the aim of realizing a sustainable society.
Global sustainability context.
国家の安全保障を目的として、高度な暗号技術の開発が進められている。
Development of advanced encryption technology is being promoted for the purpose of national security.
Strategic/Military context.
普遍的な価値の共有を目的として、国際的な対話の場が設けられた。
A forum for international dialogue was established with the purpose of sharing universal values.
Diplomatic philosophy context.
Colocaciones comunes
Frases Comunes
~を目的とした調査
~を目的とする団体
~を目的として開催される
~を目的として設立された
~を目的として導入する
~を目的として実施する
~を目的として制定された法律
~を目的として開発された技術
~を目的として企画された
~を目的として行われる
Se confunde a menudo con
Tame ni is general; Mokuteki to shite is formal and specific to a goal.
Mezashite is more about the direction/vision; Mokuteki to shite is about the functional objective.
Neratte can imply a opportunistic or predatory 'aiming'.
Modismos y expresiones
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Fácil de confundir
Mokuhyou is a 'target' or 'benchmark' (measurable); Mokuteki is the 'purpose' (the reason why).
The noun itself.
Intention (what you mean to do).
The main point or intent of a statement/plan.
The 'aim' or 'shot' (more informal).
Patrones de oraciones
Cómo usarlo
Implies a clear, conscious, and often public target.
Avoid using with personal feelings or trivial daily tasks.
- Using it for personal, casual reasons (e.g., 'to buy bread').
- Omitting 'koto' when using a verb.
- Using 'ni' instead of 'wo' (e.g., 'mokuteki ni shite').
- Confusing 'mokuteki' (purpose) with 'mokuhyou' (numerical target).
- Using it for the benefit of a person (use 'tame ni' instead).
Consejos
Academic Precision
Use this phrase in your research abstracts to clearly define your study's objective. It shows you understand academic conventions.
Email Justification
When asking for budget or resources, start with 'Cost reduction wo mokuteki to shite...' to sound more persuasive.
Spot the Goal
When reading Japanese news, look for '目的として' to quickly identify the reason behind a new law or event.
Formal Introductions
In a job interview, say 'Skill up wo mokuteki to shite...' to explain why you took a specific course.
Nominalization Rule
Always remember 'Verb + koto'. Saying 'Benkyou suru wo mokuteki' is a common mistake for learners.
Kango Pairing
This phrase pairs best with two-kanji 'kango' words like 改革 (kaikaku), 調査 (chousa), or 支援 (shien).
Intentionality
Use this phrase to show that an action was not an accident but a planned part of a strategy.
Harmony through Clarity
Stating your purpose clearly helps maintain 'Wa' (harmony) in Japanese organizations by preventing misunderstandings.
JLPT Strategy
If you see '目的' in a multiple-choice question about particles, 'として' is a very likely companion.
Avoid Overuse
Don't use it more than once or twice in a short text. It can make your writing feel heavy and bureaucratic.
Memorízalo
Origen de la palabra
Originally referred to the center of a target in archery. It evolved to mean the 'eye's target' or general goal.
Contexto cultural
Students are taught to identify the 'mokuteki' of a text early in their education.
Laws in Japan almost always start with a 'Purpose' (目的) article using this phrase.
Always state the 'mokuteki' at the beginning of a formal email or presentation.
Practica en la vida real
Contextos reales
Inicios de conversación
"このプロジェクトの目的は何ですか?"
"健康を目的として、何かしていることはありますか?"
"日本に来た目的を教えてください。"
"環境保護を目的とした活動に参加したことがありますか?"
"新しいシステムを導入した目的は何でしょうか?"
Temas para diario
日本語を勉強することを目的として、毎日何分練習しますか?
将来、社会貢献を目的としてやりたいことは何ですか?
自己啓発を目的として、最近読んだ本について書いてください。
健康維持を目的とした新しい習慣を一つ始めてみましょう。
この一年、何を目的として過ごしてきましたか?
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasNo, that is too casual. Use 'kaimono no tame ni' or 'kaimono ni' instead. This phrase is for formal goals like 'environmental protection' or 'market expansion'.
No. 'Mokuteki ni' is rarely used alone. You might see 'mokuteki ni awasete' (according to the purpose), but 'mokuteki to shite' is the standard for 'with the purpose of'.
Yes, but you must add 'koto' after the dictionary form of the verb to make it a noun phrase.
Yes, it is commonly tested at the N3 and N2 levels.
'Mokuteki to suru' is a verb (to aim for), while 'mokuteki to shite' is an adverbial phrase (aiming for...).
Absolutely. It is excellent for describing the goals of your previous projects or your reason for applying.
Only in formal speeches, presentations, or news broadcasts. It's not for daily chat.
Yes, in this specific construction, 'wo' marks the purpose as the object of the 'as' (to shite) relationship.
Yes, '~ga mokuteki de' is also common and slightly less formal than '~wo mokuteki to shite'.
It is formal (teineigo/sonkeigo context), but the phrase itself is neutral-formal.
Ponte a prueba 180 preguntas
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
Use '~を目的として' when you want to sound professional and explicitly state a formal goal. It is the 'suit and tie' version of 'tame ni,' perfect for reports, presentations, and serious essays.
- ~を目的として is a formal expression meaning 'with the purpose of' or 'aiming at.'
- It is primarily used in business, news, academic writing, and official announcements.
- Grammatically, it follows a noun or a nominalized verb (Verb + こと).
- It implies a strategic, planned objective rather than a simple personal desire.
Academic Precision
Use this phrase in your research abstracts to clearly define your study's objective. It shows you understand academic conventions.
Email Justification
When asking for budget or resources, start with 'Cost reduction wo mokuteki to shite...' to sound more persuasive.
Spot the Goal
When reading Japanese news, look for '目的として' to quickly identify the reason behind a new law or event.
Formal Introductions
In a job interview, say 'Skill up wo mokuteki to shite...' to explain why you took a specific course.
Contenido relacionado
Más palabras de academic
絶対的
B2Absolute; not qualified or diminished in any way; total.
絶対的に
B1In a complete, unconditional, or conclusive manner; absolutely.
抽象的だ
B1Abstract; existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence.
抽象
B2Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence. It refers to generalizing or extracting the essence of something away from specific details.
抽象的に
B1In an abstract or theoretical manner.
学術的な
B1Academic, scholarly; relating to education and scholarship.
学術的だ
B1Academic; relating to education and scholarship.
学術的
B2Academic; relating to education and scholarship.
学術
B1Academia; scholarship; relating to scholarly pursuits.
学力
B1Academic ability; a person's level of knowledge and skill in academic subjects.