JLPT N4
ようにする
Try to / Make sure to
Structure
Verb dictionary form ようにする
How it works
This expression is used to describe a conscious effort to establish a habit or ensure that a specific action takes place. It implies a continuous or repeated intention rather than a one-time event. When used in the negative form (ないようにする), it means making an effort to avoid doing something.
Examples
健康のために、毎日野菜を食べるようにしています。
I make it a point to eat vegetables every day for my health.
寝る前に、スマホを見ないようにしてください。
Please try not to look at your smartphone before going to bed.
明日から、もっと早く起きるようにします。
I will try to wake up much earlier starting tomorrow.
Common mistakes
Do not confuse this with ～ことにする, which indicates a one-time decision (e.g., 'I decided to go'); ～ようにする focuses on the repeated effort or habit-forming process.
Tip
Use the continuous form ～ようにしている to describe a habit you are currently maintaining, and ～ようにしてください when giving polite advice or instructions to others.
More JLPT N4 grammar
See ようにする in real Japanese
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