Learning how to say “move” in Japanese is essential if you are interested in Japanese culture, planning to travel to Japan, or simply want to expand your language skills. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways of expressing this word, and I’ll provide you with tips, examples, and even regional variations when necessary.
Table of Contents
1. Basic Translation for Move
The most common and basic translation for “move” in Japanese is 「移動（いどう）する」. It is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts. For instance, you can use it to describe moving from one place to another physically or changing positions in general.
2. Formal Ways to Say Move
When speaking formally, it’s important to use respectful language. Here are a few formal expressions for “move” in different situations:
2.1. Formal Word for Move
The formal word for “move” is 「お引（ひ）っ越（こ）しする」. This is especially used when referring to moving residences or changing homes. Japanese culture places great importance on appropriate honorific language, so using this phrase shows respect for the process of moving.
2.2. Formal Phrase for Moving Houses
If you specifically want to talk about moving houses, you can say 「住居（じゅうきょ）を移（うつ）す」 in a formal setting. It denotes a more specific type of move, focusing on the relocation of your residence.
2.3. Formal Expression for Moving Positions
When speaking about moving positions or transferring jobs in a formal manner, you can use 「異動（いどう）する」. This word carries the meaning of transferring to a different department within the same company or changing jobs entirely.
3. Informal Ways to Say Move
When speaking casually or informally, you can use alternative expressions for “move”. Here are a few:
3.1. Informal Verb for Move
A common casual verb for “move” is 「動（うご）く」. This word is widely used in everyday conversations among friends, family, or colleagues, especially when referring to physical movements or actions.
3.2. Informal Phrase for Moving Houses
If you want to informally express moving houses, you can simply say 「引っ越（こ）す」. This straightforward phrase is commonly used in informal settings to discuss changing residences.
3.3. Informal Expression for Changing Jobs
For casually expressing changing jobs or positions, you can use 「転職（てんしょく）する」. This term is used to describe getting a new job or transitioning to a different career path.
4. Additional Regional Variations
While Japanese is generally standardized across regions, there may be slight variations in certain expressions depending on the area or dialect. Here’s an example of a regional variation:
4.1. Regional Variation: 遷（うつ）る (Kansai Dialect)
In the Kansai region, specifically in Osaka, they have a distinct dialect where “move” is expressed as 「遷（うつ）る」. This phrase is used in both formal and informal contexts.
Note: When communicating with native speakers, it’s generally recommended to use the standard expressions mentioned earlier unless you are familiar with the specific regional dialect.
5. Example Sentences
Let’s take a look at some example sentences to further cement your understanding:
- Formal:
- 彼（かれ）は新（あたら）しい家（いえ）に引越（ひっこ）すことにしました。
- (He decided to move to a new house.)
- 彼女（かのじょ）は会社（かいしゃ）で異動（いどう）する予（よ）定（てい）です。
- (She is scheduled to transfer to a different department within the company.)
- Informal:
- 明日（あした）友達（ともだち）と動（うご）く予定（よてい）だよ。
- (I’m planning to hang out with friends tomorrow.)
- 引越（ひっこ）すので手伝（てつだ）ってくれる？
- (Can you help me with moving houses?)
Remember, practice makes perfect, so take these examples and incorporate them into your own conversations to enhance your fluency.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve learned various ways to say “move” in Japanese, both formally and casually. By understanding different expressions, you can communicate effectively and navigate diverse linguistic levels. Remember to adjust your language based on the situation and always be respectful when using formal expressions. Now, go forth and practice your newly acquired knowledge!
