When learning a new language, it’s essential to grasp the basics of expressing dates. In Japanese, the format for stating calendar dates can differ from what you may be accustomed to in other languages. Whether you’re looking to communicate formally or informally, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to say calendar dates in Japanese.
Formal Expressions
Formal expressions are typically used in official settings and when communicating with individuals you aren’t acquainted with. When stating calendar dates formally in Japanese, follow these guidelines:
- Saying the day of the month: To express the number of the day, use the Japanese word for the respective numbers from 1 to 31. For example, “ichi-nichi” for the 1st of the month or “juu-san-nichi” for the 13th of the month.
- Saying the month: Similar to the day of the month, express the month by using the Japanese word for the respective months from January to December. For instance, “ichi-gatsu” for January or “juu-ni-gatsu” for December.
- Saying the year: To state the year, use the Japanese word for the respective years. For example, “ni-sen-juu-hachinen” for the year 2018 or “ni-sen-ni-juu-ichi-nen” for 2021.
- Putting it all together: Combine the day, month, and year using the following format: “[Year]年 [Month]月 [Day]日.” For instance, “2019年 3月 20日” would be expressed as “Nisen-juu-kyuu-nen san-gatsu hatsuka.”
Remember to use polite language and honorifics when addressing individuals in formal settings. Following these guidelines will help you express calendar dates formally and respectfully in Japanese.
Informal Expressions
Informal expressions are used primarily among friends, family, and acquaintances. When conveying calendar dates informally in Japanese, you have more flexibility in your choice of words and tone. Here are some tips:
- Day of the month: Instead of using the Japanese word for the number, you can opt for native Japanese numbers or even a combination of native and borrowed numbers. For example, you can use “tsuitachi” for the 1st day, “juu-ni-nichi” for the 12th day, or “hatsukari” for the 20th day.
- Month: Similar to formal expressions, you can use the Japanese word for the respective month or the native equivalent. For instance, you can say “ichigatsu” or “muttsuki” for January, or “juuni-gatsu” or “shougatsu” for December.
- Year: When stating the year informally, you can use the Japanese word for the respective years or the pronunciation of the Western year. For example, “ko-ki juu-hachi-nen” or simply “ni-sen-juu-hachi” for the year 2018, or “ko-ki nijuu-ichi-nen” or “ni-sen-nijuu-ichi” for 2021.
- Combining the elements: Combine the day, month, and year in the format: “[Year]年 [Month]月 [Day]日.” For instance, “2020年 4月 10日” can be expressed as “Nisen-nijuu-nen shi-gatsu touka.”
Remember to adjust your language and level of politeness based on the relationship and context. Informal expressions allow you to add a personal touch to your conversation while conveying calendar dates effectively.
Regional Variations
While the basic approach to stating calendar dates remains consistent throughout Japan, some regional variations may occur. However, these variations should not pose any major difficulties in understanding or communicating dates in Japanese. As you continue your language journey, you may come across slight differences in pronunciation or local vocabulary. Embrace these variations as opportunities to deepen your understanding and appreciation for the diverse cultural nuances of Japan.
Examples:
Here are some examples of how to say calendar dates in Japanese:
Formal:
– 2019年 7月 5日: Nisen-jyuu-kyuu-nen shichi-gatsu itsuka
– 2000年 1月 21日: Nisen-nen ichi-gatsu ni-jyu-ichi-nichi
Informal:
– 1985年 12月 31日: Sen-kyuu-hyaku-hachi-juu-go-nen juu-ni-gatsu san-juu-ichi-nichi
– 2022年 9月 15日: Nisen-nijuu-ni-nen kugatsu juu-go-nichi
Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep using these expressions regularly to become more comfortable with stating calendar dates in Japanese. Enjoy your language learning journey and the cultural richness that accompanies it! Ganbatte kudasai!
