に沿って・
This construction describes movement or arrangement along a physical line, or action that follows an established plan, policy, request, or other guiding course.
The guiding image
The basic image is following a line without leaving it. That line may be physical, such as a river or wall, or abstract, such as a policy, plan, theme, manual, or request. In the abstract use, the first noun supplies a course that the following action stays aligned with.
Following a physical line
川に沿って遊歩道を歩いた。
We walked along the river on the promenade.
AnalyzeThe river provides the physical line followed by the route.
Following an established course
With an abstract noun, the construction means that an action or result remains consistent with the direction already provided.
新しい運営方針に沿い、受付手順を見直します。
In line with the new operating policy, we will review the reception procedures.
AnalyzeThe compact connective suits this formal announcement-like sentence.
お客様のご要望に沿った提案書を作成しました。
We prepared a proposal in line with the client's requests.
Analyzeに沿った directly describes the proposal.
Following a course versus adjusting to a target
に沿って follows a line or direction that is already set. By contrast, に合わせて emphasizes actively adjusting one thing so that it matches another.
子どもの成長に合わせて、机の高さを調整する。
Adjust the height of the desk as the child grows.
AnalyzeThe desk is actively adjusted to match a changing target, so the matching construction is natural here.
More examples
海岸線に沿って松の木が並んでいる。
Pine trees stand in a row along the coastline.
Analyze計画に沿って調査を進めます。
We will proceed with the investigation according to the plan.
Analyzeご依頼に沿い、見積書を修正いたしました。
In line with your request, we have revised the estimate.
Analyzeテーマに沿った写真を三点提出してください。
Please submit three photographs that fit the theme.
Analyzeマニュアルに沿って装置を点検した。
The equipment was inspected following the manual.
Analyze壁に沿って棚を設置した。
We installed shelves along the wall.
Analyze