Japanese grammar
What does ～にそって mean? Japanese grammar N2
～にそって means along (a road/stream); in keeping with (a policy, a wish).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N2 |
|---|---|
| Structure | N + に沿って N + に沿った + N |
| Romaji | nisotte |
| Meaning | along (a road/stream); in keeping with (a policy, a wish) |
Forming it
| Noun (policy) | 方針 + に沿って |
|---|---|
| Noun (road/stream) | 川 + に沿って |
How to use it
Goes along a road/stream, or acts exactly in line with a policy/wish/plan.
- 「～に沿って」: (a) going ALONG (川・道); (b) acting IN LINE WITH a policy/wish/plan (方針・希望・計画).
- As a modifier, use 「に沿った + N」.
- Close to 「に従って」 (following); 「に沿って」 emphasizes sticking closely to an existing path/framework.
Examples
川に沿って、道が続いている。
The road continues along the river.
ご希望に沿って、プランを変更しました。
We changed the plan in line with your wishes.
Keep in mind
- Attaches to a noun.
- Meaning (a) going along; meaning (b) following a framework.
Common mistakes
-
Wrongこれはご希望に沿っての計画です。
This is a plan in line with your wishes.
Correctこれはご希望に沿った計画です。
As a modifier, use 「に沿った + N」.
-
Wrong方針に沿ってに、進める。
Proceed exactly according to the policy.
Correct方針に沿って、進める。
「に沿って」 attaches directly, without adding 「に」.
Exam tips
- 「に沿って」 = going along / in line with a policy; as a modifier, 「に沿った＋N」.