〜ようになる

〜ようになる is a verb form expressing come to / become able to. Understanding this conjugation pattern is essential for expanding what you can express in Japanese. Verb forms are the backbone of Japanese grammar — each form unlocks new ways to describe actions, states, and intentions.

This is an intermediate pattern used regularly in everyday Japanese conversation and writing.

When to Use#

• Gradual change in ability: 日本語が話せるようになった (I became able to speak Japanese)
• Change in habit: 早く起きるようになった (I've come to wake up early)
• Natural development: だんだん分かるようになる (You'll gradually come to understand)

When NOT to Use#

• When the meaning is closer to "try to / make sure to" — use 〜ようにする instead
• In very formal writing where a more sophisticated expression would be expected

Example Sentences#

• 漢字が書けるようになりました。 — I came to be able to write kanji.
• 在宅勤務ができるようになりました。 — I became able to work from home.
• 兄弟は仲良くするようになりました。 — My siblings have come to get along well.

Practice#

Try reading these sentences aloud, then check the translation and vocabulary:

Common Mistakes#

1. Confusing 〜ようになる with 〜ようにする — While both are related, 〜ようになる expresses "come to / become able to" whereas 〜ようにする expresses "try to / make sure to." Pay attention to the specific nuance each pattern conveys.
2. Wrong verb group conjugation — Group 1 and Group 2 verbs conjugate differently. Common pitfall: treating Group 1 verbs ending in る (like 帰る) as Group 2 verbs.

Related Patterns#

• 〜ようにする (try to / make sure to) — Compare