〜ように (purpose)
so that ~
Connect an action to the goal it is meant to achieve.
Remember it
Goal in mind, action in front: link them with 〜ように (purpose).
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜ように (purpose)」 means "so that ~". Structure: Verb potential/nai + ように. This is a JLPT N3 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
Use it for goals, preparation, instructions, and explaining why you take an action.
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修理を忘れないようにメモします。
しゅうり を わすれない よう に めも します。
shuuri o wasurenai you ni memo shimasu.
I take notes so that I do not forget the repair.
At work
Example 2資料を忘れないようにメモします。
しりょう を わすれない よう に めも します。
shiryou o wasurenai you ni memo shimasu.
I take notes so that I do not forget the materials.
Everyday life
Example 3機械を忘れないようにメモします。
きかい を わすれない よう に めも します。
kikai o wasurenai you ni memo shimasu.
I take notes so that I do not forget the machine.
Everyday life
Example 4材料を忘れないようにメモします。
ざいりょう を わすれない よう に めも します。
zairyou o wasurenai you ni memo shimasu.
I take notes so that I do not forget the ingredients.
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 4
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
I take notes so that I do not forget the repair.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜ように (purpose).
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.