Lesson article
Spot the signal, compare it, then read it in context
Read all 3 sections in order. Notice the target form, compare it with the nearby alternative, then use the reading and practice below to check the meaning in context.
Section 1 of 3
Core meaning
～ことになっている describes a rule, system, or arrangement that is already in place. It is common in signs, company manuals, school policies, and official schedules.
Target signal
この図書館では、館内で飲食しないことになっている。
At this library, eating and drinking inside are not allowed.
Standing rule.
Vocabulary notes
- ことになっている
- it has been decided that; it is arranged that
- ている
- to be doing; to be in a resulting state
- ことに
- into the situation that; in the arrangement that
Compare in context
面接の結果は、一週間以内に連絡することになっています。
The interview result is scheduled to be announced within one week.
Established procedure.
Vocabulary notes
- 連絡する
- to contact; to inform
- います
- there is; exists (animate)
- ことに
- into the situation that; in the arrangement that
Section 2 of 3
Compare related forms
ことにする is a decision made by the speaker or a group. ことになる is the result of a decision or arrangement. ことになっている focuses on the rule or arrangement as a continuing state.
Target signal
来月から制服を着ることにした。
We decided to wear uniforms starting next month.
The decision itself.
Vocabulary notes
- ことに
- into the situation that; in the arrangement that
- から
- from; because
- こと
- thing; matter; fact
Preview
来月から制服を着ることになった。
It was decided that we will wear uniforms starting next month.
Outcome of a decision.
Vocabulary notes
- ことに
- into the situation that; in the arrangement that
- から
- from; because
- こと
- thing; matter; fact
Preview
来月から制服を着ることになっている。
We are supposed to wear uniforms starting next month.
Existing arrangement or rule.
Vocabulary notes
- ことになっている
- it has been decided that; it is arranged that
- ている
- to be doing; to be in a resulting state
- ことに
- into the situation that; in the arrangement that
Section 3 of 3
Reading focus
In reading, ask whether the sentence is reporting a rule, a procedure, or a one-time decision. Institutional subjects such as 学校, 会社, 規則, and 予定 often point to ～ことになっている.
Target signal
申込書は、締め切りまでに提出することになっている。
Application forms are to be submitted by the deadline.
Notice-style obligation or standing instruction.
Vocabulary notes
- ことになっている
- it has been decided that; it is arranged that
- 締め切り
- deadline
- ている
- to be doing; to be in a resulting state
Preview
この列車は次の駅で五分ほど停車することになっている。
This train is scheduled to stop at the next station for about five minutes.
Timetable arrangement rather than a fresh decision.
Vocabulary notes
- ことになっている
- it has been decided that; it is arranged that
- ている
- to be doing; to be in a resulting state
- ことに
- into the situation that; in the arrangement that