N173/186

まま(に)

Vる/Vた/Nの + ままにVます + ままにAい + ままにNの + ままに〜のままに(〜する)

Meanings

  • As one wishes
  • Spur of the moment
  • Whatever one fancies
  • Spontaneously
  • On a whim

About this pattern

Explanation

まま(に) expresses that an action is done according to one’s own will, feeling, or a situation’s natural course, often with a nuance of disregard for external constraints. It contrasts with doing something deliberately or under instruction; instead, it indicates acting as one pleases, in the moment, or letting things continue as they are or as one desires. Common in contexts where someone acts spontaneously, freely, or as personal inclination dictates; can carry a sense of autonomy or, in some cases, lack of consideration for others or rules depending on context.

Learn in context

Example sentences

彼は自分の思いのままに動いた。

He acted according to his own wishes.

私たちは天気のせいで計画を変更したが、結局気分のままに出かけることにした。

We changed plans because of the weather, but in the end we went out as we felt like it.

子どもは先生の言うとおりにするのを嫌い、気分のままに遊んでしまった。

The child didn’t like to do as the teacher said and ended up playing as he pleased.

彼女は周囲の目を気にせず自分の好きなように生きている。

She lives as she likes, without worrying about what others think.

この部屋は元のままにしておきなさい。

Leave this room as it is.