December, the twelfth and final month of the year, is a special time filled with joy and anticipation for many people around the world. If you’re interested in knowing how to say “December” in Japanese, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways to express the month. Whether you’re planning a trip to Japan, learning the language, or simply exploring different cultures, this guide has got you covered. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say December in Japanese
When it comes to formal expressions, Japanese has specific words for each month. In formal settings, you’ll commonly hear the word “December” translated as:
- 12月 (じゅうにがつ, Jūnigatsu)
Remember to pronounce the numbers as “juu-ni” to accurately say “December” in a formal context. Using the word “Jūnigatsu” is appropriate in business settings, official documents, or any situation where formality is required.
Informal Ways to Say December in Japanese
In informal conversations, the Japanese language provides alternative ways to express “December.” One commonly used informal term is:
- 師走 (しわす, Shiwasu)
Shiwasu, often translated as “priest running,” refers to the idea of busy priests because December is associated with various traditional events and ceremonies in Japan. While not as commonly used as the formal term, Shiwasu serves as a more casual way to refer to December in everyday conversations and among friends.
It’s important to note that the informal term “Shiwasu” is less frequently used than “12月 (Jūnigatsu)” in formal settings, so make sure to choose the appropriate expression based on the context or level of formality needed.
Examples and Usage
To further understand the usage of the formal and informal ways of saying “December” in Japanese, here are some examples:
Example 1: 先月は11月でしたが、今は12月です。 (Senshuu wa juuichigatsu deshita ga, ima wa juunigatsu desu.)
Translation: Last month was November, but now it’s December.
Example 2: クリスマスは師走のイベントです。 (Kurisumasu wa Shiwasu no ibento desu.)
Translation: Christmas is an event in December.
These examples highlight the usage of both formal and informal expressions, depending on the context of the conversation or written text.
Additional Tips and Regional Variations
Although “Jūnigatsu” and “Shiwasu” are the most commonly used terms for December in Japanese, there are a few regional variations you might come across:
- 呼霜 (よふり, Yofuri): Used in the Tohoku region of Japan.
- 季冬 (きとう, Kitou): A poetic term for winter, used occasionally in some areas.
While these regional variations exist, they are not as widely recognized as the formal and informal terms discussed earlier. Stick to “Jūnigatsu” or “Shiwasu” to ensure clear communication in most situations.
Now that you have learned ways to say “December” in Japanese, you’ll be able to express the month with confidence in both formal and informal settings. Remember to choose the appropriate expression based on the context, and enjoy using your new knowledge in conversations or when exploring Japanese culture!
