Grammar Info

N2 Lesson 5: 13/18

(もと)Based on, From, According to

Structure

Noun + をもとに(し
Noun + をもとにした + Noun

Details

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About をもとに

When linked to a noun, (もと) is an expression that indicates that something is 'based on (A)', 'from (A)', or 'according to (A)'. This is a combination of , the noun (もと) 'origin', and . The literal meaning is similar to 'with (A) as the origin, (B)', and is used primarily to reference a source from which something is created or started.

Most of the time, をもとに will be written without kanji, but it is also possible to see it as (もと).

As this grammar pattern is mainly used to highlight an origin of creation, it will often be seen in sentences that use verbs like ()く 'to write', できる 'to be able', and (つく)る 'to make'.

Caution - (もと) 'based on' differs to (もと)づいて 'based on', in that (もと)づいて indicates a foundation from which the judgement or conclusion of (B) is made, while (もと) focuses more on being a source of inspiration for (B), or enabling (B).

  • (かれ)法律(ほうりつ)(もと)づいて処分(しょぶん)されるだろう。
    He will be receiving punishment according to the law.
  • (かれ)法律(ほうりつ)をもとに処分(しょぶん)されるだろう。
    He will be punished based on the law.

Examples

--:--

    これはクックパッド(もと)(つく)ったうどんです。

    This is udon made according to Cookpad.

    このインタビュー(もと)記事(きじ)()いてください。

    Please write an article based on this interview.

    息子(むすこ)足跡(あしあと)(もと)(あと)()った。

    I pursued my son based on his footprints.

    電話(でんわ)(ちょう)(もと)宛名(あてな)()いてください。

    Please write the name and address according to the telephone book.

    そんな主観(しゅかん)(もと)(うら)まれても(こま)るよ。

    If you feel bitter about it based on that personal opinion, I will not be thrilled.

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をもとに – Grammar Discussion

Most Recent Replies (1 in total)

  • Zenguro

    Zenguro

    When is it more natural to use をもとに instead of おもとにして?

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