When communicating in Japanese, it’s essential to have a diverse vocabulary to express yourself accurately. Knowing how to say “lastly” can be particularly useful when emphasizing the final point or summarizing a series of ideas. In this guide, we will explore various ways to convey “lastly” in both formal and informal contexts in Japanese. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
When speaking formally, it is crucial to use appropriate language and honorifics in Japanese. Here are several formal ways to say “lastly” depending on the context:
1. 最後に (Saigo ni)
The most common and straightforward way to express “lastly” in Japanese is by using the phrase “最後に” (Saigo ni). It can be used in various situations and is widely understood across Japan.
For example:
最後に、私たちの新プロジェクトについてお知らせします。
(Saigo ni, watashitachi no shin purojekuto ni tsuite oshirase shimasu.)
“Lastly, I would like to inform you about our new project.”
Remember to use “最後に” (Saigo ni) when speaking formally to smoothly convey the sense of “lastly” in your sentences.
2. 最終的に (Saishūteki ni)
“最終的に” (Saishūteki ni) is another formal expression equivalent to “lastly” in Japanese. It implies a final decision, outcome, or conclusion.
For example:
最終的に、国際会議は成功裏に終わりました。
(Saishūteki ni, kokusai kaigi wa seikōri ni owari mashita.)
“Lastly, the international conference concluded successfully.”
Using “最終的に” (Saishūteki ni) can add a touch of formality to your speech, making it ideal for business or official settings.
Informal Expressions
When conversing with friends, family, or in casual settings, you can employ less formal expressions to say “lastly” in Japanese. Here are a couple of options:
1. とにかく最後に (Tonikaku saigo ni)
To express “lastly” in an informal context, the phrase “とにかく最後に” (Tonikaku saigo ni) is commonly used. It adds a friendly and laid-back tone to your speech.
For example:
とにかく最後に、明日の集まりの詳細を教えるよ！
(Tonikaku saigo ni, ashita no atsumari no shōsai o oshieru yo!)
“Lastly, I’ll let you know the details of tomorrow’s gathering!”
By incorporating “とにかく最後に” (Tonikaku saigo ni) into your conversation, you can create a friendly and informal atmosphere.
2. ついでに (Tsuide ni)
Another informal expression meaning “lastly” is “ついでに” (Tsuide ni). It is often used to add some additional information after concluding the main points of discussion.
For example:
ついでに、彼女の新しいアルバムを褒めてみたら喜ぶよ。
(Tsuide ni, kanojo no atarashii arubamu o home te mitara yorokobu yo.)
“Lastly, if you compliment her new album, she’ll be delighted.”
By incorporating “ついでに” (Tsuide ni) into your speech, you can introduce an additional point of interest or action.
Summary
Let’s recap the different ways to say “lastly” in Japanese. In formal contexts, “最後に” (Saigo ni) and “最終的に” (Saishūteki ni) are commonly used, with the latter carrying a stronger finality. Informally, “とにかく最後に” (Tonikaku saigo ni) and “ついでに” (Tsuide ni) offer a more casual and friendly way to express “lastly.”
Remember to adjust the usage based on your level of formality and the context in which you are speaking. With these expressions in your repertoire, you can effectively communicate the concept of “lastly” in Japanese and make your conversations more nuanced and versatile.
