に沿って
Along, In accordance with, In line with
Structure
Noun + にそった(1) + Noun
(1) にそう
Explanation
When combined with the case marking particle に, the て-form of the う-Verb 沿う 'to follow' is used to express that something is done 'according to (A)', 'based on (A)', or 'in line with (A)'. This grammar is typically used when (A) is an established standard, such as a plan, a policy, expectations, or a request. The nuance implies that (A) is the guiding principle, and (B) is an action that conforms to that principle.
に沿って can also be seen in its dictionary or past tense form before another noun, where it serves to modify that noun.
- マニュアルに沿って、この家具を組み立ててください。Please assemble this furniture according to the manual.
- 皆様の期待に沿う結果を出せるように頑張ります。I will do my best to produce results that are in line with everyone's expectations.
- このテーマに沿った意見を言ってください。Please share an opinion that is in line with this theme.
Since the fundamental meaning of 沿う involves 'following something closely', it is also frequently used in a physical sense to describe moving alongside a path, river, or road.
- 川に沿って歩くと、きれいな公園があります。If you walk along the river, you'll find a beautiful park.
Although this grammar point often carries a formal tone, its literal usage for 'alongside' a physical object is common in everyday speech.
Examples
川に沿って桜の木が植えられている。
Cherry blossom trees have been planted along the river.
このレシピに沿って作れば、おいしいケーキができますよ。
If you make it according to this recipe, you can bake a delicious cake.
会社の方針に沿って、新しいプロジェクトを立ち上げます。
We will launch a new project in line with the company's policy.
海岸線に沿ってドライブするのは気持ちがいい。
It feels great to drive along the coastline.
本日のテーマに沿って発言をお願いします。
Please make your statements in accordance with today's theme.
お客様のご要望に沿ったデザインを提案いたします。
We will propose a design that is in line with the customer's request.
公園の塀に沿ってきれいな花がたくさん咲いていた。
Many beautiful flowers were blooming along the park's fence.
組立説明書の指示に沿って、家具を作ってください。
Please build the furniture following the instructions in the assembly manual.
線路に沿って歩くのは危険なのでやめましょう。
Let's stop walking along the railway tracks because it's dangerous.
私たちは常に法律に沿ってビジネスを行っています。
We always conduct our business in accordance with the law.
医者の助言に沿って、毎日ジョギングをしています。
Following the doctor's advice, I go jogging every day.
このツアーは、ご予算に沿ってプランを組むことができます。
For this tour, we can put together a plan in line with your budget.