Introduction
In this blog, we’ll explain what のように (noyouni) and のような (noyouna) mean, how to use them, and provide clear examples to help you master them. By the end, you’ll be able to use these structures naturally in your Japanese conversations.
What It Means
Both のように (noyouni) and のような (noyouna) are used to make comparisons, but their uses are slightly different.
1. のように (noyouni):
This is used with verbs or adjectives to describe actions or characteristics that are similar to something else.
Structure:
Noun A + のように + verb/adjective
“Done in the same way as A” or “having a characteristic that are similar to something else (A).
Examples:
- マリアさんは魚のように上手に泳げます。
(Maria-san wa sakana no you ni jouzu ni oyogemasu.)
Maria can swim very well, just like a fish. - マイクさんは孫悟空のように強いです。
(Maiku-san wa Son Gokuu no you ni tsuyoi desu.)
Mike is strong like Goku, the martial arts hero of the Dragon Ball manga and anime series.
2. のような (noyouna):
This is used with nouns to describe things that are similar to something else or to give an example of something.
Structure:
Noun A + のような + Noun B
“A B like A” or “A B that resembles A.”
Examples:
- 私は鎌倉のような町が好きです。
(Watashi wa Kamakura no you na machi ga suki desu.)
I like towns like Kamakura. - あの雲は綿菓子のような形をしています。
(Ano kumo wa watagashi no you na katachi o shiteimasu.)
That cloud has a shape like cotton candy.
When to Use It
- Use のように (noyouni):
- To compare how an action is done:
Example: 彼はロボットのように正確に動きます。
(Kare wa robotto no you ni seikaku ni ugokimasu.)
He moves precisely like a robot.
- To compare how an action is done:
- Use のような (noyouna):
- To compare qualities or appearances between two nouns:
Example: あの子は天使のような笑顔をしています。
(Ano ko wa tenshi no you na egao o shiteimasu.)
That child has a smile like an angel’s.
- To compare qualities or appearances between two nouns:
Notes
- Using みたい Instead:
みたい is a more casual alternative to のように and のような. The main difference is that の is not needed before みたい.
Examples:- りくさんの犬はぬいぐるみみたいにかわいいです。
(Riku-san no inu wa nuigurumi mitai ni kawaii desu.)
Riku’s dog is cute just like a teddy bear. - あの人はマザー・テレサみたいな人です。
(Ano hito wa Mazaa Teresa mitai na hito desu.)
She is a person just like Mother Teresa.
- りくさんの犬はぬいぐるみみたいにかわいいです。
- Formality:
- Use のように and のような in formal situations or writing.
- Use みたい in casual conversations.
Conclusion
のように (noyouni) and のような (noyouna) are useful tools for making comparisons in Japanese. Whether you’re describing an action or comparing characteristics, these structures add depth and clarity to your expressions.
Recommended Resources
For a deeper understanding of -noyouni / -noyouna, I recommend A Handbook of Japanese Grammar Patterns for Teachers and Learners. This book explains many Japanese grammar patterns, including -noyouni and -noyouna, with clear examples and simple explanations. It’s perfect for learners who want to understand grammar in more detail. Check it out to strengthen your understanding and master these useful expressions!
