〜ようになっている

It is designed to...; It works in such a way that...

1. Overview

「〜ようになっている」 is used to express the intended design of a mechanism, system, or device, indicating that something operates or functions in a specific way. It is commonly used to describe the functionality of devices, the structure of systems, or the laws of natural phenomena, emphasizing automation or the inevitability of a result.

2. Structure

• Verb (dictionary form) + ようになっている
• Verb (negative form) + ようになっている

3. Usage Explanation

• Indicating Design or Mechanism:
  This structure is used to describe that a system, device, or function is designed to operate in a certain way, and that this design is automated or unavoidable.

• Emphasizing Inevitable Result:
  This grammar structure is often used to emphasize that a certain result is predetermined or naturally occurring, and does not depend on human control.

• English Translation:
  It can be translated as "it is designed to...", "can...", or "will automatically...".

4. Example Sentences

1. このドアは閉めると、鍵がかかるようになっています。
   This door is designed to lock automatically when closed.

2. この機械は異常があると、アラームが鳴るようになっている。
   This machine is set to sound an alarm in case of an anomaly.

3. 電気は一定の時間が経つと、消えるようになっています。
   The light will automatically turn off after a certain period.

4. このシステムは定期的にデータをバックアップするようになっている。
   This system is designed to back up data regularly.

5. このドアは押すと開くようになっている。
   This door is designed to open with a push.

5. Key Points to Note

• Automated Functionality:
  「〜ようになっている」 is primarily used to describe automated functions or results, commonly found in technical descriptions, device user manuals, or descriptions of natural laws.

• Non-Human Control:
  This expression typically emphasizes that the result occurs automatically and does not depend on the actions of the user.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜ことになっている: Indicates a rule, regulation, or arrangement rather than a device's functionality.
  • Example: 会議は午後3時から始まることになっています。
    The meeting is scheduled to start at 3 PM.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜ようにする: Indicates an intentional effort by a person to do something.
  • Example: 毎日運動するようにしています。
    I try to exercise every day.

8. Summary

「〜ようになっている」 is used to describe the automated functionality of systems, devices, or natural phenomena, emphasizing design intent or inevitable results. It is commonly found in technical descriptions and functional explanations, indicating that things operate or process automatically in a specific manner without human intervention.