B1 noun #2,500 mais comum 5 min de leitura

~を目的として

With the purpose of, aiming at; having a specific goal.

o mokuteki to shite
At the A1 level, you usually learn the simplest way to say 'for' or 'to do,' which is '~ni' or '~no tame ni.' The phrase '~wo mokuteki to shite' is much too formal for beginners. However, you can understand it as a very strong version of 'for.' If you see '目的' (mokuteki), just think 'goal.' If you see 'として' (to shite), think 'as.' So, 'Goal as...' or 'As a goal.' Even if you don't use it yet, knowing that 'mokuteki' means 'purpose' is very helpful for reading signs or basic forms in Japan. For example, a form might ask for your 'Purpose of Visit' (入国の目的 - nyuukoku no mokuteki). At this stage, focus on the word 'mokuteki' first, and don't worry about the long grammar phrase until you are more comfortable with formal Japanese.
At the A2 level, you are starting to use more specific grammar to explain your reasons. You might already know 'Verb + tame ni' (in order to). '~wo mokuteki to shite' is like a professional version of that. You will see it in news headlines or on the 'About Us' pages of websites. For an A2 learner, the important thing is to recognize the structure: [Noun] + を目的として. It tells you exactly why a company or a government is doing something. You might not use it in your daily speech, but you should be able to identify it in a simple announcement. For example, 'Health (kenkou) + wo mokuteki to shite + exercise (undou)' means 'Exercising for the purpose of health.' It sounds much more serious than just saying 'I exercise to be healthy.'
At the B1 level, you are expected to handle more formal situations, such as business emails or structured essays. This is the level where you should start actively using '~wo mokuteki to shite.' It allows you to sound professional and clear. Instead of using the multi-purpose '~no tame ni,' which can sometimes be vague, '~wo mokuteki to shite' signals to your reader that you have a specific, planned objective. You should practice nominalizing verbs with 'koto' to use this phrase effectively (e.g., 'kouritsu wo ageru koto wo mokuteki to shite' - with the purpose of increasing efficiency). This is a key phrase for the JLPT N3 and N2 levels, appearing often in reading comprehension passages about social issues or corporate policies.
At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of when to choose '~wo mokuteki to shite' over other similar expressions like '~wo mezashite' or '~ni sakigakete.' You understand that this phrase implies a formal, often institutionalized goal. In your writing, you can use it to create a sophisticated tone. You should also be comfortable with its variations, such as '~を目的とした' (used as an adjective). For example, 'shigen hogo wo mokuteki to shita katsudou' (activities aimed at resource protection). At this level, you can use it to describe complex social phenomena or business strategies in detail, ensuring that the 'purpose' you describe is a logical and clearly defined target.
At the C1 level, you use '~wo mokuteki to shite' with precision in academic writing, legal contexts, or high-level business negotiations. You are aware of the subtle difference in tone it brings compared to '~wo ito shite' (with the intention of) or '~wo niran de' (with an eye toward). You can use it to define the scope of a project or the legislative intent of a law. Your usage should be flawless, correctly identifying whether a noun or a nominalized clause is more appropriate for the specific context. You also recognize when the phrase is used to narrow down the legal definition of an action, such as in contracts where the 'purpose' of a partnership is explicitly stated using this grammar.
At the C2 level, this phrase is a standard tool in your high-level linguistic repertoire. You can use it to discuss abstract concepts, philosophical goals, or complex socio-political objectives. You understand its historical development and its place within the 'kango' (Chinese-derived) vocabulary that dominates formal Japanese. You can effortlessly switch between this and even more formal or archaic versions if the context (such as a formal speech at a traditional institution) requires it. You also notice when others use the phrase incorrectly or when a different nuance (like 'shigan' or 'hon'i') would be more appropriate to describe the underlying motivation of an actor.

~を目的として em 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 , 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。

— This meeting was held with the purpose of sharing the progress of the new project.

環境保護を目的として、新しい法律が制定された。

— A new law was enacted with the aim of environmental protection.
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。」

— Our company has introduced a new customer support system with the aim of improving customer satisfaction.

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。」

— The government is considering a new subsidy system with the purpose of addressing the declining birthrate.

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

PhraseFormalityNuance
~を目的としてHighOfficial, Strategic, Clear Target
~のためにMediumGeneral, Personal, Beneficiary
~を目指してMedium-HighAspirational, Directional

How Formal Is It?

Formal

""

Informal

""

Nível de dificuldade

Gramática essencial

Exemplos por nível

1

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.

2

健康を目的として歩きます。

I walk for the purpose of health.

Noun + wo mokuteki to shite.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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.

6

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.

7

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.

8

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.

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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.

6

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.

7

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.

8

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.

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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.

6

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.

7

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.

8

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.

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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.

6

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.

7

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.

8

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.

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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.

6

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.

7

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.

8

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.

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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.

6

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.

7

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.

8

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.

Colocações comuns

収益拡大を目的として
環境保護を目的として
平和維持を目的として
技術向上を目的として
再発防止を目的として
相互理解を目的として
情報共有を目的として
地域活性化を目的として
品質管理を目的として
教育普及を目的として

Frases Comuns

~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

Frequentemente confundido com

~を目的として vs ~のために

Tame ni is general; Mokuteki to shite is formal and specific to a goal.

~を目的として vs ~を目指して

Mezashite is more about the direction/vision; Mokuteki to shite is about the functional objective.

~を目的として vs ~を狙って

Neratte can imply a opportunistic or predatory 'aiming'.

Expressões idiomáticas

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

Fácil de confundir

~を目的として vs 目標 (Mokuhyou)

Mokuhyou is a 'target' or 'benchmark' (measurable); Mokuteki is the 'purpose' (the reason why).

~を目的として vs 目的 (Mokuteki)

The noun itself.

~を目的として vs 意図 (Ito)

Intention (what you mean to do).

~を目的として vs 趣旨 (Shushi)

The main point or intent of a statement/plan.

~を目的として vs 狙い (Nerai)

The 'aim' or 'shot' (more informal).

Padrões de frases

Como usar

nuance

Implies a clear, conscious, and often public target.

restriction

Avoid using with personal feelings or trivial daily tasks.

Erros comuns
  • 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).

Dicas

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.

Memorize

Origem da palavra

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.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Iniciadores de conversa

"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 diário

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?

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, 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.

Teste-se 180 perguntas

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

Foi útil?
Nenhum comentário ainda. Seja o primeiro a compartilhar suas ideias!