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
Aiming for a result
〜ように expresses a goal in terms of the result you want to happen. Instead of focusing on the action itself, it focuses on the state you want to achieve or avoid.
Target signal
忘れないように、メモします。
I make a memo so that I do not forget.
The goal is avoiding forgetting, not the act itself.
Vocabulary notes
- ように
- so that ...; in order to ...
- します
- do
- ように
- so that; in order to
Compare in context
みんなに聞こえるように、大きな声で話してください。
Please speak loudly so that everyone can hear.
Potential or ability expressions often pair with 〜ように.
Vocabulary notes
- 話してください
- please speak
- てください
- please do ...
- ください
- please give; please do
Section 2 of 3
Common patterns with potential and negatives
〜ように is especially common when the goal uses a potential form, a negative form, or another expression that is not a direct voluntary action. That is why it often contrasts with ために.
Target signal
日本語が読めるようになりたい。
I want to become able to read Japanese.
読める is a result-state expression, so 〜ように fits well.
Vocabulary notes
- ように
- so that ...; in order to ...
- ように
- so that; in order to
- 日本語
- Japanese language
Preview
子どもでも分かるように説明した。
I explained it so that even children could understand.
The explanation is adjusted so the result becomes possible.
Vocabulary notes
- ように
- so that ...; in order to ...
- ように
- so that; in order to
- 分かる
- to understand
Section 3 of 3
Reading the difference from ために
When choosing between ために and 〜ように, check what comes before them. If the clause describes a desired result such as 読める, 忘れない, or 分かる, 〜ように is usually the better fit.
Target signal
早く起きられるように、目覚ましを二つセットした。
I set two alarms so that I would be able to wake up early.
A desired outcome using a potential form.
Vocabulary notes
- ように
- so that ...; in order to ...
- セット
- set; kit
- ように
- so that; in order to
Preview
間違えないように、ゆっくり書いてください。
Please write slowly so that you do not make mistakes.
Negative result clauses often take 〜ように.
Vocabulary notes
- 書いてください
- please write
- てください
- please do ...
- ください
- please give; please do