Meanings and Usage
The word "通り" (とおり) primarily means "street" or "avenue" when referring to a physical road. However, it also has an important grammatical use meaning "in accordance with," "just as," or "the way" something is done or said.
Literal Use: Streets
When used literally, "通り" refers to a street or road, often seen in addresses or directions. For example, "この通り" means "this street."
Figurative Use: Following Instructions or Statements
"通り" is frequently used after verbs or nouns to indicate doing something exactly as described or expected. Common patterns include:
- Verb (た-form) + 通り: "as (someone) did/said"
- Noun + の + 通り: "according to (something)"
This usage is very common in everyday conversation and formal instructions.
Common Collocations
- この通り: this street
- 説明した通り: as explained
- 言った通り: just as said
- 予定の通り: according to plan
Register and Nuance
"通り" is neutral and can be used in both casual and formal contexts. When used in the grammatical sense, it often emphasizes exactness or conformity.
Learner Tips
A common confusion is mixing "通り" with similar expressions like "ように." While both can mean "as" or "like," "通り" stresses doing something exactly as stated, whereas "ように" can imply similarity or purpose. For example, "説明した通りにやってください" means "Please do exactly as explained," emphasizing precision.
Understanding these nuances will help you use "通り" naturally in conversation and writing.