Processing keyword: ～にしたがって (〜ni shitagatte)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～にしたがって (〜ni shitagatte)

Grammar Point: ～にしたがって (〜ni shitagatte)

1. Introduction

The Japanese grammatical structure ～にしたがって (〜ni shitagatte) is often used to express conformity or alignment with a situation or condition. This phrase typically conveys that something changes in coordination with another thing or that actions are taken according to certain guidelines or rules.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The phrase translates to "in accordance with," "following," or "according to."
• Structure:
  • The structure is [noun] + にしたがって.
  • In cases where a verb or adjective is necessary, they can also appear in their appropriate forms before にしたがって.

Formation Diagram

[Noun/Verb/Adjective] + にしたがって 
   ↓   
   (in accordance with/along with)

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• ～に従う (〜ni shitau): This is the verb form of the same root, which means "to follow" or "to obey."
  • Example: ルールに従って行動する (To act in accordance with the rules).
• ～に伴って (〜ni tomonatte): Meaning "accompanying" or "along with," this structure emphasizes a simultaneous change.
  • Example: 年齢に伴って経験が増える (Experience increases with age). Nuance: While all three may convey a sense of following or adherence, にしたがって emphasizes changes occurring due to a directive, whereas に伴って focuses more on simultaneous changes.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:

   • 会社の方針にしたがって、新しいプロジェクトを開始します。
   • (In accordance with the company's policy, we will start a new project.)

2. Informal:

   • スケジュールにしたがって、明日出発するよ。
   • (According to the schedule, I'm departing tomorrow.)

3. Written:

   • 規則にしたがって、すべての参加者は名前を記入する必要があります。
   • (According to the rules, all participants need to fill in their names.)

4. Spoken:

   • にゃーん、天気にしたがって、行き先を変えよう。
   • (Meow, depending on the weather, let's change our destination.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japan, following rules and norms is an essential part of social behavior. Using ～にしたがって indicates a respect for structure and authority, which is highly valued in Japanese culture.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

Though this structure can be used in both formal and informal contexts, the examples provided are exemplified with consideration of the social setting.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 審査基準にしたがった評価 (Evaluation based on assessment criteria)

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Confusing it with the similar grammatical points (e.g., using に従って or に伴って incorrectly based on context).

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of "にしたがって" as "to flow with" a certain rule or guideline, similar to how a river follows its path.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• The grammar point ～にしたがって indicates actions or changes that are made in accordance with a certain standard or condition.
• It emphasizes respect for guidelines and rules, which is integral in Japanese culture.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What is the main meaning of ～にしたがって?
2. Provide a noun that could be used with ～にしたがって in a sentence.
3. How does ～にしたがって differ from ～に伴って? By understanding the nuances of ～にしたがって, learners can improve their ability to discuss processes and decisions in Japanese, aligning closely with cultural norms.