Guide on How to Say “Every Year” in Japanese

Gaining knowledge of different ways to express concepts in a foreign language is an essential part of language learning. If you’re interested in knowing how to say “every year” in Japanese, this guide will provide you with various ways to express this phrase depending on formal or informal situations. It will also highlight any necessary regional variations. Let’s dive in!

Formal Ways to Say “Every Year” in Japanese

If you’re looking for a more formal way to express “every year” in Japanese, you have a few options:

1. 毎年 (まいとし) – Mainen

The most common and versatile way to say “every year” in Japanese is by using the phrase “毎年” (まいとし), which can be pronounced as “mainen”. This phrase is widely used in formal contexts and it is important to note that it tends to be a neutral expression that doesn’t carry any specific regional variations.

Usage example: 彼らは毎年旅行に行きます。(かれらはまいとしりょこうにいきます。) – “They go on a trip every year.”

2. 年々 (ねんねん) – Nen’nen

Another formal way to express “every year” is by using the phrase “年々” (ねんねん), pronounced as “nen’nen”. This term emphasizes the repetitive nature of an action or occurrence from one year to another. It commonly finds usage in formal speeches, reports, or written materials.

Usage example: 彼のビジネスは年々成長しています。(かれのびじねすはねんねんせいちょうしています。) – “His business is growing every year.”

Informal Ways to Say “Every Year” in Japanese

Now let’s explore some informal ways to express “every year” in Japanese that are typically used in casual conversations:

1. 毎年毎年 (まいとしごとしごとし) – Maitoshi gotoshite

“毎年毎年” (まいとしごとしごとし), pronounced as “maitoshi gotoshite,” serves as an informal expression to emphasize the repetition of an action or event every year. This phrase is often used when reminiscing about past experiences or expressing personal habits or traditions.

Usage example: 毎年毎年同じ遊びをします。(まいとしごとしごとし おなじあそびをします。) – “We do the same activity every year.”

2. 毎回 (まいかい) – Maikai

When talking about regular events or situations that occur on a yearly basis, using “毎回” (まいかい), pronounced as “maikai,” in informal settings is quite common. This expression can often be heard in everyday conversations.

Usage example: 毎回お正月に家族で集まります。(まいかいおしょうがつにかぞくであつまります。) – “We gather as a family every New Year.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, when expressing “every year” in Japanese, your choice of words depends on the formality of the situation. In formal settings, “毎年” (まいとし) – Mainen is your best bet, while in casual or informal conversations, “毎年毎年” (まいとしごとしごとし) – Maitoshi gotoshite or “毎回” (まいかい) – Maikai are commonly used. Now armed with these phrases, you can confidently talk about occurrences or actions that take place on a yearly basis in Japanese.