JLPT N3 reference · Aspect and change
ことになる decisions
The pattern presents a decision or outcome as externally determined rather than chosen directly by the speaker.
Core meaning and form
Use dictionary or negative form + ことになる; ことになっている describes an established arrangement or rule. Contrast ことにする, which foregrounds the subject’s own decision.
- Form: Use dictionary or negative form + ことになる; ことになっている describes an established arrangement or rule.
- Core use: The pattern presents a decision or outcome as externally determined rather than chosen directly by the speaker.
- Context: Contrast ことにする, which foregrounds the subject’s own decision.
Examples in context
来月、大阪へ転勤することになりました。Raigetsu, Ōsaka e tenkin suru koto ni narimashita.It has been decided that I will transfer to Osaka next month.
会議は中止することになった。Kaigi wa chūshi suru koto ni natta.The meeting was to be cancelled.
ここでは靴を脱ぐことになっています。Koko de wa kutsu o nugu koto ni natte imasu.The rule here is to remove your shoes.
Common errors
- Do not select this pattern from an English translation alone; check its attachment and discourse function.
- Keep the surrounding sentence in a consistent plain, polite, spoken, or written register.
Quick summary
- Use dictionary or negative form + ことになる; ことになっている describes an established arrangement or rule.
- The pattern presents a decision or outcome as externally determined rather than chosen directly by the speaker.
- Contrast ことにする, which foregrounds the subject’s own decision.