What it means
ままに expresses acting according to a desire, impulse, instruction, or circumstance, with little or no deviation from it. With a verb in the dictionary form, it often means “as one wishes” or “as something dictates.” With a noun followed by の, it means “according to” or “under the influence of” that noun. This pattern is common in formal, literary, and written Japanese, and it often suggests allowing events or an external force to guide one’s actions.
Usage note
ままに should not be confused with noun or verb forms followed by まま that mean remaining in an unchanged state. The related form がままに also exists in literary expressions, but it is a separate attachment pattern and is not represented in the formulas below.
How to use it
彼は本能のままに行動しました。
He acted according to his instincts.
彼女は心の赴くままに各地を訪れました。
She visited various places as her heart led her.
彼は本能のままに行動した。
He acted according to his instincts.
彼女は心の赴くままに各地を訪れた。
She visited various places as her heart led her.
Example sentences
専門家の助言のままに作業を進めた結果、装置は予定どおり正常に動作した。
As a result of proceeding with the work according to the expert's advice, the device operated normally as scheduled.
彼女は医師の指示のままに薬を服用した。
She took the medicine according to the doctor's instructions.
監督