Grammar Info

N4 Lesson 9: 7/17

様(よう)にするTo try to, To make sure to, To endeavor to

Specifies end goals

Structure

Verb［る］(1) + ように + する

(1) Verb［ない］

Details

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About ようにする

(A) ようにする is an expression in Japanese which combines the auxiliary verb ようだ, with する (indicating that you will 'try' to do something). As ようだ is being linked to the verb する, it will take on its adverbial form, ように. This structure emphasizes that the (A) action (always a verb) is something that the speaker is going out of their way to do, and implies effort.

Naturally, this structure may also be used with a negative verb, to imply that (A) being done is something that is actively being avoided. This translates as 'to make sure not to do (A)'.

Fun Fact

Because ようだ comes from the kanji 様(よう) 'manner', it carries the nuance that the 'way' that someone is doing (A) is specifically in a way that has success as the goal. Literally it translates quite closely to 'to do (A) in the manner of getting it done', and therefore just strengthens the (A) action, by using 'to do' twice.

Synonyms

Examples

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    妻(つま)にばれないようにしてくれ！

    Try not to let my wife find out about it!

    予約(よやく)に間(ま)に合(あ)うようにしましょう。

    Let's try to be on time for the reservation.

    そのコップを落(お)とさないようにしてください。

    Please try not to drop that cup.

    あまり音(おと)が出(で)ないようにしてください。

    Please try not to make much noise.

    綺麗(きれい)に包(つつ)むようにします。

    I will try to wrap it beautifully.

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      ようにする – Grammar Discussion

      Most Recent Replies (7 in total)

      • othesius

        othesius

        毎日()野菜()を食()べるようにしないといけない。

        I’m probably forgetting something really basic, but what’s with といけない at the end rather than しなくては?

      • IcyIceBear

        IcyIceBear

      • othesius

        othesius

        Ah yeah. Thanks so much!

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