意(い)のまま

いのまま

expression

as one wishes; at one's will; freely

1. as one wishes; at one's will; at one's pleasure

Describes doing something exactly as one wants, having full control over a situation or being able to act without restriction.

彼(かれ)は人(ひと)を意(い)のままに操(あやつ)る。

He manipulates people as he pleases.

自然(しぜん)は人間(にんげん)の意(い)のままにならない。

Nature doesn't bend to human will.

権力者(けんりょくしゃ)は国(くに)を意(い)のままに支配(しはい)しようとした。

The ruler tried to control the country as he saw fit.

Combines 意(い) (intention, will) with のまま (as is, unchanged). Expresses having complete control or freedom to do as one wishes. Often used when describing someone exerting power or influence over others or situations.

Common patterns

意(い)のままに操(あやつ)る: to manipulate at will
意(い)のままにする: to do as one pleases with
意(い)のままにならない: to not go as one wishes
意(い)のままに動(うご)く: to move as one wills

Usage

Often carries a slightly literary or dramatic tone. Common in narratives about power, control, and freedom. The negative form 意(い)のままにならない is very common, expressing frustration that things aren't going as planned.

Similar words

思(おも)いのまま: as one feels/desires — similar but slightly more emotional
思(おも)い通(どお)りに: as one expects — focuses on things matching expectations
自由自在(じゆうじざい)に: freely, at will — emphasizes skillful control
好(す)きなように: however one likes — more casual

Related Words

Compare: 思(おも)いのまま (as one feels/desires)

Compare: 思(おも)い通(どお)り (as one expects)

Compare: 自由自在(じゆうじざい) (freely, at will)

general

Added 2026.4.8 16:46 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:02

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