別に
betsu ni[be̞t͡sɨ ɲ̟i]
The English phrase "on the side" can be translated into Japanese as 別に (betsu ni).
This phrase is used when you want something, such as a sauce or a condiment, to be served separate from the main course of a meal.
Meaning: separate from the main course of a meal (prep_phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The expression 別に is composed of betsu, meaning separate or different and the particle ni, which indicates a state or manner. Literally, it means "separately".
How do you pronounce it?
betsu ni
Did you know?
- While 別に can mean 'on the side' in a restaurant, it is very commonly used in casual conversation to mean 'not particularly' or 'nothing in special'.
- The kanji 別 in 別に is also used in the word 別れ (wakare), which means 'parting' or 'breakup'. Both words derive from the core concept of things moving in different directions.
- The word 別に is related to the Korean word 별로 (byeollo). Both use a shared root meaning 'separate' or 'different' to express the idea of 'not particularly'.
Examples in context
- ソースを別にください。I'd like the sauce on the side.This sentence is useful for requesting that the sauce be provided with the form 別に.Tatoeba #213762 by mookeee, translation #51049 by CK
- 私は翻訳者の役職を持っています。プロジェクトの仕事の傍らで英会話の教師をしています。I have a position as a translator. I teach English on the side along with my project work.
- ドレッシングは別にしてもらえますか？Doresingu wa betsu ni shite moraemasu ka?Could you serve the dressing on the side?
- 醤油は別に持ってきます。Shouyu wa betsu ni motte kimasu.I will bring the soy sauce on the side.
Example conversation
Kenta and Yui are ordering food at a restaurant.
- 結衣 Yui健太、何にする？Kenta, nani ni suru?Kenta, what are you having?
- 健太 Kentaハンバーグにするよ。ソースは別にしてもらうつもり。hanbaagu ni suru yo. sōsu wa betsu ni shite morau tsumori.I'll have the hamburger steak. I plan to get the sauce on the side.
- 結衣 Yuiいい考えだね。私もそうしよう。ii kangae da ne. watashi mo sō shiyō.That's a good idea. I'll do the same.
- 健太 Kentaじゃあ、店員さんを呼ぼうか。jaa, tenin-san o yobō ka.Well, shall we call the waiter?
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 別に, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 別に, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
