Saying “always” in Japanese can be a bit tricky as there are different ways to express this concept depending on the context, formality, and regional variations. This guide will provide you with various tips, examples, and explanations for both formal and informal usage of “always” in Japanese.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Always”
When speaking in a formal context, there are a few common expressions you can use to convey the meaning of “always” in Japanese. Let’s explore them below:
1. いつも (Itsumo)
The most commonly used word for “always” in Japanese is いつも (itsumo). This word is versatile and can be used in a wide range of situations to express the idea of something happening consistently or continuously. It’s a safe choice for both formal and informal conversations. Some examples include:
Example 1: 彼女はいつも遅いです。
Translation: She is always late.
Example 2: いつもお世話になっております。
Translation: I always appreciate your help.
2. 常に (Tsune ni)
In more formal settings, you can also use the word 常に (tsune ni) to convey the meaning of “always.” This expression tends to be more formal and is often used in written language, business settings, or official statements. Here are a couple of examples:
Example 3: 社内での安全は常に最優先です。
Translation: Safety within the company is always our top priority.
Example 4: 私たちは常に品質にこだわります。
Translation: We always strive for quality.
Informal Ways to Say “Always”
When speaking in informal situations, there are also several expressions you can use to convey the meaning of “always” in Japanese. These are commonly used in daily conversations among friends, family, or colleagues.
1. ずっと (Zutto)
The word ずっと (zutto) is a popular choice to express “always” in an informal context. It emphasizes the idea of something happening continuously or for a long period. Here are a few examples:
Example 5: 彼はずっと笑顔ですね。
Translation: He always has a smile on his face.
Example 6: ずっと応援していますよ。
Translation: I’m always cheering for you.
2. いつまでも (Itsumademo)
In some informal settings, you may also come across the phrase いつまでも (itsumademo) to convey the idea of “always.” This expression carries a sense of eternity and is often used in romantic or heartfelt conversations. Here are a couple of examples:
Example 7: いつまでも一緒にいたいです。
Translation: I want to be with you always.
Example 8: いつまでも忘れませんよ。
Translation: I will never forget you, always.
Regional Variations
While the expressions mentioned above are widely understood and can be used in all regions of Japan, it’s worth noting that there might be slight variations in regional dialects. However, these variations are not significant and won’t hinder communication. It’s always good to be aware of the local dialects when traveling or interacting with people from specific regions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, expressing the concept of “always” in Japanese can be done through various words and phrases. The choice of expression mainly depends on the context and formality level. When speaking formally, いつも (itsumo) and 常に (tsune ni) are commonly used, while in informal situations, ずっと (zutto) and いつまでも (itsumademo) are frequently heard. Remember to adapt your language choice based on the situation and always consider regional variations. With these tips and examples, you’ll be able to confidently express “always” in Japanese in different conversations.
