Verb た＋とおりに (Exactly as I/they did)

📝 Quick Summary

This grammar point is used to perform an action in the exact same way as an action that has already happened. By using the Ta-form (plain past tense), you show that you are replicating a memory, a past lesson, or previous instructions.

Structure: [Verb Ta-form] + とおりに
Example: せんせいが いった とおりに して ください (Please do exactly as the teacher said).

💡 Raya’s Hack

Dictionary Form vs. Ta-Form Timing
Choosing between the Dictionary form and Ta-form depends entirely on when the model action happens.

– [わたしが いう] とおりに かいてください: I haven’t spoken yet. I am going to speak now, and you will write exactly as I speak. (Live Dictation).
– [せんせいが いった] とおりに かいてください: The teacher spoke yesterday (or earlier). Write exactly as they said in the past. (Memory/Replay).

Using the Ta-form correctly shows you have great control over Japanese timelines!

🚧 Joy’s Mistake

🔥 Layer C: Retrieval Practice Loop

Retrieve and apply! Master the art of replicating the past. (Hiragana and English only)

Level 1: Structure Building (Ta-Form)

Level 2: Full Sentences