In this guide, we will explore different ways to say “period” in Japanese, including both formal and informal variations. Whether you’re learning the language for travel or just out of curiosity, understanding how to express this simple concept is essential. So, let’s dive in and discover various ways to say “period” in Japanese!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Period”
When it comes to formal situations, such as in official documents, academic settings, or professional conversations, the following are some common phrases used to express the idea of “period.”
- Period: 期間 (kikan)
For example: この計画は三週間の期間を要するでしょう。(Kono keikaku wa san shūkan no kikan o yō suru deshō.) – This plan will take approximately three weeks.
Time frame: 時期 (jiki)
For example: このイベントはよい時期に行われるべきです。(Kono ibento wa yoi jiki ni okonawareru beki desu.) – This event should take place at a good time.
Duration: 期間 (kikan) or 持続時間 (jizokujikan)
For example: 私たちの旅行は二週間の期間です。(Watashitachi no ryokō wa ni shūkan no kikan desu.) – Our trip will last for two weeks.
また、この映画の持続時間は二時間です。(Mata, kono eiga no jizokujikan wa ni jikan desu.) – Also, the duration of this movie is two hours.
Informal Ways to Say “Period”
Moving on to informal situations, where you can use more casual expressions among friends, family, or acquaintances, here are some popular phrases to convey the meaning of “period.”
- We’re done: 終わり (owari) or 終わった (owatta)
For example: 宿題が終わりました！(Shukudai ga owarimashita!) – We’re done with the homework!
やっと試験が終わったよ。(Yatto shiken ga owatta yo.) – Finally, the exam is over!
That’s it: これで終わり (kore de owari)
For example: もうこれで終わりだよ。(Mō kore de owari da yo.) – That’s it, we’re done now.
The end: おしまい (oshimai)
For example: プロジェクトはここでおしまいかと思います。(Purojekuto wa koko de oshimai ka to omoimasu.) – I think this is the end of the project here.
Summary
To summarize, there are several ways to express the concept of “period” in Japanese, depending on the level of formality required by the situation. When it comes to formal scenarios, you can use terms like “期間” (kikan), “時期” (jiki), or “持続時間” (jizokujikan). On the other hand, in informal situations, phrases such as “終わり” (owari), “終わった” (owatta), “これで終わり” (kore de owari), or “おしまい” (oshimai) are commonly used.
Remember to choose the appropriate expression based on the context and the relationship you have with the person or people you are speaking to. Using the right phrase will help you communicate effectively in Japanese and make smoother connections with native speakers.
Now that you have learned various ways to say “period” in Japanese, practice using these expressions in different scenarios to improve your language skills. As you become more comfortable, you’ll find it easier to express yourself with confidence and clarity. Keep up the great work and enjoy your language learning journey!
