Usage of ～通り
The expression ～通り (～とおり) is used to indicate that something is done "in accordance with" or "just as" something else, such as instructions, plans, or promises. It is often attached to nouns or verbs (in dictionary form) to express that the action or state matches exactly what was mentioned or expected.
Common Patterns
- 名詞 + の通り: Used to say "just as (noun)" or "according to (noun)". Example: 説明書の通り (as per the instruction manual).
- 動詞辞書形 + 通り: Indicates "just as (verb)" or "in the way (verb)". Example: 計画通り (according to the plan).
- 時間 + 通り: To express "on time" or "as scheduled". Example: 時間通りに来る (come on time).
Nuances and Register
～通り is neutral and commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. It emphasizes conformity or exactness to a stated method, plan, or example. It can be used in spoken and written Japanese.
Common Confusion
Learners sometimes confuse ～通り with ～ように. While both can express similarity or manner, ～通り stresses exact conformity, whereas ～ように can imply similarity or manner without exactness. For example, 計画通り means "exactly as planned," while 計画のように means "like the plan" but not necessarily exactly.
Collocations
- 説明書の通りに (according to the instruction manual): used when following instructions precisely.
- 約束の通り (as promised): used to confirm something done as agreed.
- 計画通りに (according to the plan): used in project or schedule contexts.
- 時間通りに (on time): used to indicate punctuality.
Understanding ～通り helps learners express conformity and exactness in various situations, making it a useful phrase for daily conversation and formal communication.