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

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

～にしたがって (〜ni shitagatte)

1. Introduction

In Japanese, the grammar point ～にしたがって (〜ni shitagatte) is used to express that one action or change occurs "in accordance with" or "as" another action or change happens. It indicates a correlation where one event influences or causes another, often showing a proportional or parallel progression.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• As...; In accordance with...; Following...; Along with...

Structure

The structure of ～にしたがって is as follows:

1. Verb (Dictionary Form) + にしたがって
2. Noun + にしたがって

Formation Diagram

[Verb (Dictionary Form)] + にしたがって
[     Noun           ] + にしたがって

Detailed Explanation

• When attached to a verb, it indicates that as the action of the verb progresses, another action or change occurs correspondingly.
• When attached to a noun, it shows that in accordance with that noun (which often represents a change or rule), another action occurs.

Visual Aid: Structure Table

3. Comparative Analysis

～にしたがって vs. ～につれて (〜ni tsurete)

Both expressions indicate that one action changes in correlation with another. However:

• ～にしたがって often implies following rules, guidelines, or natural progression.
• ～につれて emphasizes a direct relationship where one change leads directly to another.

～にしたがって vs. ～とともに (〜to tomo ni)

• ～にしたがって focuses on following or in accordance with something.
• ～とともに means "together with" and indicates simultaneous occurrence or action.

4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. 気温が上がるにしたがって、アイスクリームの売り上げも増える。 Translation: "As the temperature rises, ice cream sales also increase."
2. 日本の法律にしたがって、適切な手続きを行います。 Translation: "We will proceed with the appropriate procedures in accordance with Japanese law."
3. 技術が発展するにしたがって、人々の生活が便利になる。 Translation: "As technology advances, people's lives become more convenient."
4. 時間が経つにしたがって、彼の緊張もほぐれてきた。 Translation: "As time passed, his nervousness eased."
5. 計画にしたがって、プロジェクトを進めましょう。 Translation: "Let's proceed with the project according to the plan."

Contextual Usage

• Formal Written Japanese: Commonly used in essays, reports, and formal statements.
• Spoken Japanese: Used in formal conversations or presentations to indicate changes or adherence to plans/rules.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• In Japanese culture, following rules and social norms is highly valued. The use of ～にしたがって reflects the importance placed on conformity and adherence to guidelines.

Levels of Politeness

• ～にしたがって is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it leans towards formal usage due to its structured nature.

Idiomatic Expressions

• While ～にしたがって itself is a grammatical expression, it's often used in idiomatic phrases related to societal expectations and natural progressions.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Using the wrong verb form: Ensure that when using a verb, it is in its dictionary form before adding にしたがって.

  Incorrect: 勉強しているにしたがって、上達する。 Correct: 勉強するにしたがって、上達する。

• Confusing with similar expressions: Be careful not to mix up ～にしたがって with ～につれて or ～とともに, as they have subtle differences in usage.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Associate したがって with "従う (したがう)", which means "to follow". This can help remember that ～にしたがって involves following or going along with something.
• Practice with Progressions: Create sentences that describe natural progressions or changes, such as aging, technological advancement, or seasonal changes, to get accustomed to using ～にしたがって.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ～にしたがって is used to express that one action changes in accordance with another.
• It can be attached to the dictionary form of verbs and nouns.
• It often appears in formal contexts and emphasizes adherence to rules or natural progressions.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the Blank: 経済が発展する______、環境問題も深刻化している。 a) にとって b) にしたがって c) によって
2. True or False: ～にしたがって can be used with the past tense of verbs.
3. Choose the Correct Usage: Which sentence correctly uses ～にしたがって? a) 雨が降るにしたがって、傘を買いました。 b) 年を取るにしたがって、経験が増える。

Answers:

1. b) にしたがって
2. False: It is used with the dictionary (present) form, not past tense.
3. b) 年を取るにしたがって、経験が増える。 Translation: "As we age, our experiences increase."

By understanding and practicing ～にしたがって, you'll enhance your ability to describe correlating changes and adherence to guidelines in Japanese. Remember to pay attention to verb forms and the nuances between similar expressions to use this grammar point effectively.