Gaining knowledge about how to express the phrase “every other day” in Japanese can be valuable when engaging in conversations or studying the language. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to convey this idea, along with various tips, examples, and regional variations as necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Every Other Day”
When speaking formally in Japanese, you can use the phrase “mainichi kataku” (毎日隔日) to express “every other day”. Let’s break down this phrase:
- 毎日 (mainichi) – means “every day”
- 隔日 (kataku) – means “every other day”
By combining these two terms, you can effectively communicate the concept of doing something on alternating days in a formal context.
Example:
私は毎日隔日でジョギングに行きます。
(Watashi wa mainichi kataku de joggingu ni ikimasu.)
I go jogging every other day.
Informal Ways to Say “Every Other Day”
In informal conversations, Japanese people often use the expression “tsui tsui” (ツイツイ) with a verb following it to convey the idea of doing something every other day. This is a shorter and more colloquial way to express the same concept.
Example:
最近、ツイツイランニングをしているんだ。
(Saikin, tsui tsui ranningu o shite irun da.)
Lately, I’ve been going running every other day.
Tips for Using “Every Other Day” in Japanese
1. Flexibility in Frequency:
It’s important to note that Japanese culture allows for flexibility when using the concept of “every other day”. If someone says they do something “every other day”, it doesn’t necessarily mean exactly every second day. It could refer to a frequency that suits their personal routine or circumstances.
2. Verb Placement:
In Japanese, verbs usually come at the end of a sentence. So when saying “I do something every other day”, place the verb after “mainichi kataku” or “tsui tsui”.
3. Context Matters:
Remember that the usage of “every other day” can vary depending on the context. Consider who you are speaking with and adjust your choice of expression to be formal or informal accordingly.
Regional Variations
When it comes to regional variations, the phrases mentioned above are understood throughout Japan. However, certain specific local expressions may exist depending on the region you find yourself in. It’s always fun to explore local dialects, but for practical purposes, using the standard phrases mentioned earlier will suffice in most situations.
Overall, these formal and informal ways of expressing “every other day” in Japanese should equip you to comfortably incorporate this phrase into your conversations. Remember the tips provided, and feel free to adapt the expressions according to the context and person you’re speaking with. Happy conversing!
