Japanese grammar
What does ～とおり（に） mean? Japanese grammar N2
～とおり（に） means exactly as…; in accordance with….
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N2 |
|---|---|
| Structure | Vる／Vた + とおりに Nの + とおりに N + どおりに |
| Romaji | toori(ni) |
| Meaning | exactly as…; in accordance with… |
Forming it
| Verb | 言った → 言ったとおりに |
|---|---|
| Compound | 指示 → 指示どおりに |
| Noun + の | 地図 → 地図のとおりに |
How to use it
Doing exactly according to a model, instruction, or something said. No deviation allowed.
- Three connection patterns: 「Vたとおりに」, 「Nのとおりに」, and the compound form read with a VOICED sound 「Nどおりに」 (指示どおり・時間どおり).
- Na-adjectives and nouns do NOT connect with 「だ」 — the catalog entry that writes 「な形＋だとおり」 is incorrect.
- Compared to 「ように」: 「とおりに」 demands exactness, while 「ように」 allows a little leeway.
Examples
先生が説明したとおりに、実験を行った。
I carried out the experiment exactly as the teacher explained.
この地図のとおりに歩けば、駅に着きます。
If you walk exactly as this map shows, you will reach the station.
Keep in mind
- The compound form is read with a voiced sound 「どおり」.
- A standalone noun needs 「の」.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong地図とおりに歩いてください。
Please walk exactly according to this map.
Correct地図のとおりに歩いてください。
A standalone noun must connect via 「の」 (or be compounded into 「地図どおり」).
-
Wrong予定とおりに進んでいます。
Things are proceeding exactly according to schedule.
Correct予定どおりに進んでいます。
When compounded directly, it is read with a voiced sound, 「どおり」.
Exam tips
- 「とおりに」 = exactly like; 「Nどおり」 is read with a voiced sound, 「Nのとおり」 keeps the plain reading.