Meaning
のに after a dictionary-form verb and に after a noun introduce purpose, time, or cost; this is distinct from concessive のに.
Formation
- Dictionary form + のに + 使う / 要る / 便利だ / かかる: 運ぶのに使います
- A noun takes に: 掃除に使います
When to use it
- Core use
- Marks purpose and the resources an action requires
Examples
16 sentences-
このかばんは絵を運ぶのに使います
This bag is used for carrying paintings.
-
このはさみは紙を切るのに便利です
These scissors are useful for cutting paper.
-
この道具は料理に使います
This tool is used for cooking.
-
家を建てるのに二千万円かかります
It costs twenty million yen to build a house.
-
この仕事を終えるのに三日かかりました
It took three days to finish this work.
-
引っ越しに十万円かかりました
The move cost one hundred thousand yen.
-
このはさみは厚い紙を切るのに使います
These scissors are used for cutting thick paper.
-
このかばんは旅行するのに便利です
This bag is convenient for travelling.
8 more examples
-
漢字を覚えるのにカードを使っています
I use flashcards to memorize kanji.
-
駅まで歩くのに三十分かかります
It takes thirty minutes to walk to the station.
-
この料理を作るのに卵が二つ要ります
Two eggs are needed to make this dish.
-
この部屋は勉強するのに静かでいいです
This room is quiet and good for studying.
-
写真を送るのにこのアプリが便利です
This app is convenient for sending photos.
-
引っ越すのにお金がたくさんかかりました
Moving cost a lot of money.
-
その問題を解くのに時間がかかりました
It took time to solve that problem.
-
お茶を入れるのにこのポットを使ってください
Please use this pot to make tea.
Important notes
- のに with 使う, 要る, 便利だ or かかる can express purpose or a requirement.
Common mistakes
- This is distinct from concessive のに: 運ぶのに使う means use for carrying.
Check yourself
Pick the translation of each sentence. The wrong options translate similar patterns, so watch the grammar rather than the words.
Similar grammar
Hear it in podcasts
The pattern appears in these episodes. They open in the app with the transcript and translation.
The trainer requires a free account. Examples and practice questions on this page are available without signing up.