にしたがって | Grammar

Structure

[verb (dict form)] + にしたがって / にしたがい [noun] + にしたがって / にしたがい

Description

The grammar structure にしたがって expresses two main ideas: (1) "as ~ happens" – describing how one thing changes in proportion to or along with another change, and (2) "in accordance with / following" – describing acting according to rules, instructions, or someone's guidance. It comes from the verb したがう従う (したがう), meaning "to follow" or "to obey."

Proportional change – "as ~"

When attached to a verb, にしたがって expresses that as one thing progresses or changes, another thing naturally changes along with it. This usage emphasizes a gradual, correlated shift.

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As I've gotten older, my physical strength has declined.

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As the altitude rises, the temperature drops.

This usage is similar to ～につれて and ～にともなって, though にしたがって often implies a natural or expected progression.

In accordance with – "following ~"

When attached to a noun (such as rules, instructions, or a person's guidance), にしたがって means "following" or "in accordance with."

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We conducted the experiment following the teacher's instructions.

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Please handle it in accordance with the law.

にしたがい – written/formal variant

In formal writing, にしたがい is used instead of にしたがって. The meaning is the same, but the tone is more literary.

Examples

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As time passed, I gradually forgot about her.

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As the population increases, housing problems are becoming more serious.

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As I studied Japanese, I also became interested in Japanese culture.

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As the seasons change, the scenery changes too.

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I assembled the furniture following the instructions.

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I'm watching my diet in accordance with the doctor's advice.

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Please act in accordance with the rules.

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As technology has advanced, life has become more convenient.

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As the night deepened, the town grew quieter.

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Let's proceed with the project according to the plan.

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As I kept practicing, I got better.

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Following the president's policy, we introduced a new system.

References

にしたがってBunpro