JLPT N3 reference · Complex clauses
Purpose with ように and ために
ように presents a target state or ability, while ために commonly presents an intentional purpose by a controlled actor.
Core meaning and form
Use non-volitional or potential clause + ように; use a volitional action or noun + のために. Subject relations and controllability determine which pattern sounds natural.
- Form: Use non-volitional or potential clause + ように; use a volitional action or noun + のために.
- Core use: ように presents a target state or ability, while ために commonly presents an intentional purpose by a controlled actor.
- Context: Subject relations and controllability determine which pattern sounds natural.
Examples in context
忘れないように、メモします。Wasurenai yō ni, memo shimasu.I make a note so that I will not forget.
日本で働くために、日本語を勉強しています。Nihon de hataraku tame ni, Nihongo o benkyō shite imasu.I study Japanese in order to work in Japan.
聞こえるように、大きな声で話してください。Kikoeru yō ni, ōkina koe de hanashite kudasai.Please speak loudly so that people can hear.
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 non-volitional or potential clause + ように; use a volitional action or noun + のために.
- ように presents a target state or ability, while ために commonly presents an intentional purpose by a controlled actor.
- Subject relations and controllability determine which pattern sounds natural.