Japanese grammar

What does ~ように。(sentence-ending reminder) mean? Japanese grammar N3

~ように。(sentence-ending reminder) means make sure to…; please remember to… (sentence-ending reminder).

Quick facts
Level (estimated, JLPT framework)N3
StructureVる + ように。
Vない + ように。
Romajiyouni.
Meaningmake sure to…; please remember to… (sentence-ending reminder)

Forming it

Negative忘れない → 忘れないように。
Affirmative提出する → 必ず提出するように。

How to use it

Ends the sentence right at 「ように」 to give a gentle yet firm instruction. Common in announcements and teachers' reminders.

  • The sentence stops right at 「ように」; the part 「してください/と言われている」 is omitted: 「明日までに必ず提出するように」.
  • Because it's omitted, it sounds objective rather than a personal command — that's why notices and teachers often use it.
  • Different from 「~ように言う」 (N3-159): that pattern REPORTS someone else's words, whereas here the speaker gives the instruction directly.

Examples

  • Be sure to submit the report by Friday.

  • Do not speak loudly in the classroom.

Keep in mind

  • Only used with subordinates or in general announcements.
  • Do not add 「です」 after 「ように」.

Common mistakes

  • Wrong部長(ぶちょう)、資料(しりょう)を確認(かくにん)するように。

    Manager, please check the documents.

    Correct部長(ぶちょう)、資料(しりょう)をご確認(かくにん)ください。

    This is an instruction directed downward — with a superior you must use 「ご~ください」.

  • Wrong必(かなら)ず提出(ていしゅつ)するようにです。

    Be sure to submit it.

    Correct必(かなら)ず提出(ていしゅつ)するように。

    The sentence stops right at 「ように」; do not add 「です」.

Exam tips

  • 「~ように。」 = a gentle instruction (notices, teachers); reporting someone's words uses 「ように言う」.

Related patterns

All N3 grammar →