〜なりに
in one's own way
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜なりに” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜なりに」 means "in one's own way". Structure: Noun + なりに. This is a JLPT N1 pattern — the examples below slot different everyday and workplace words into the same structure so you can see how it behaves. Learn the structure, then swap in your own words.
When to use it
Read the example aloud, then replace one detail with something from your own life.
Tone: Neutral
A general pattern; let the sentence ending and situation set the politeness level.
Use
Hear it in real life
Everyday life
Example 1私なりに採決を工夫してみた。
わたし なり に さいけつ を くふう して みた。
watashi nari ni saiketsu o kufuu shite mita.
I devised the vote in my own way.
Shopping & services
Example 2私なりに買収を工夫してみた。
わたし なり に ばいしゅう を くふう して みた。
watashi nari ni baishuu o kufuu shite mita.
I devised the acquisition in my own way.
Everyday life
Example 3私なりに志願を工夫してみた。
わたし なり に しがん を くふう して みた。
watashi nari ni shigan o kufuu shite mita.
I devised the volunteering in my own way.
Everyday life
Example 4私なりに転載を工夫してみた。
わたし なり に てんさい を くふう して みた。
watashi nari ni tensai o kufuu shite mita.
I devised the reprinting in my own way.
Everyday life
Example 5私なりに滞納を工夫してみた。
わたし なり に たいのう を くふう して みた。
watashi nari ni tainou o kufuu shite mita.
I devised the payment arrears in my own way.
Make it yours
Choose one example. Replace one person, place, object, or time with a detail from your life, then say the new sentence aloud.
Recall
Test your memory
Recall practice
Can you say it?
1 of 5
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
I devised the vote in my own way.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜なりに.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.