Greetings! If you’re planning to visit Japan or simply interested in the Japanese language and culture, it’s essential to know how to say “public holiday” in Japanese. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore both the formal and informal ways to express this term, and provide some useful tips and examples along the way. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Public Holiday
When it comes to formal situations, such as using polite language with strangers, officials, or in official documents, the following phrases can be used:
1. “Shukujitsu” (祝日)
The most common way to express “public holiday” in Japanese is by using the term “shukujitsu.” This is the formal and standard phrase used across the country. It literally translates to “celebration day.”
Example:
明日は祝日です。
“Ashita wa shukujitsu desu.”
Translation: “Tomorrow is a public holiday.”
2. “Kokumin no kyūjitsu” (国民の休日)
Another formal way to say “public holiday” in Japanese is “kokumin no kyūjitsu.” It carries the meaning of “national holiday” and is used in official contexts.
Example:
国民の休日は多くの人々にとってリフレッシュの機会です。
“Kokumin no kyūjitsu wa ōku no hitobito ni totte rifuresshu no kikai desu.”
Translation: “National holidays are opportunities for many people to refresh.”
Informal Ways to Say Public Holiday
In casual conversations or among friends, you can use the following less formal expressions to refer to a public holiday:
1. “Yasumi” (休み) or “Kyūjitsu” (休日)
Both “yasumi” and “kyūjitsu” mean “holiday” or “day off” in Japanese. These terms are more commonly used conversationally than the formal expressions, and they convey the same meaning as “public holiday,” but in a less official tone.
Example:
明日は休みだからどこかに行きませんか？
“Ashita wa yasumi dakara dokoka ni ikimasen ka?”
Translation: “Tomorrow is a holiday, so want to go somewhere?”
2. “Hōriga” (法律家) or “Koyō no nai hi” (雇用のない日)
These expressions are a bit more informal and less commonly used. “Hōriga” roughly means “non-working day,” while “koyō no nai hi” translates to “unemployed day.” Although less standard, they can still be heard in casual conversations.
Example:
今週の水曜日には法律家があるから、待ち遠しいな。
“Konshū no suiyōbi ni wa hōriga ga aru kara, machidoishii na.”
Translation: “I’m looking forward to Wednesday because there’s a public holiday.”
Tips
Now that you know the various ways to say “public holiday” in Japanese, here are a few additional tips to help you along:
1. Accentuation
Pay attention to the accentuation of “shukujitsu” (祝日). The stress falls on the first syllable, pronounced as “shu-ku-jitsu.” This will help you pronounce it correctly and sound more natural.
2. Context Matters
Be mindful of the context in which you’re using the term. Make sure to choose the appropriate level of politeness and formality based on the setting and the people you’re interacting with.
3. Regional Variations
While Japan primarily uses “shukujitsu” or “yasumi” across the country, some regions may have their own local names for specific public holidays. If you’re planning to visit a particular region in Japan, it can be helpful to learn about any regional variations beforehand.
In Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now learned how to say “public holiday” in Japanese. Remember to use “shukujitsu” or “kokumin no kyūjitsu” in formal situations, and “yasumi” or “kyūjitsu” in informal conversations. Incorporate these phrases into your Japanese vocabulary to enhance your language skills, impress locals, and fully enjoy your time during public holidays in Japan. Have a wonderful time exploring the Land of the Rising Sun!
