Learning how to express the word “twice” in Japanese can be useful in various situations, whether you’re discussing time, quantities, or repeating actions. In this guide, we’ll explore the formal and informal ways to say “twice” in Japanese, providing you with tips, examples, and even regional variations if necessary. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say “Twice”
When it comes to formal situations, such as business meetings or academic settings, it’s essential to use polite language. Here are a few formal ways to express “twice” in Japanese:
1. Ni-do (にど):
This is the most standard and polite way to say “twice” in Japanese. It can be used in various contexts, including counting or indicating repetition. For example:
- Watashi wa ni-do Nihon ni itta koto ga arimasu. (私は２度日本に行ったことがあります。)” – “I have been to Japan twice.”
- Kono shigoto wa ni-do yaritai. (この仕事は２度やりたい。) – “I want to do this job twice.”
Remember to use the particle “ni” (に) after the number to indicate the specific number of times.
2. Futatabi (再び / ふたたび):
This is a more formal word for “twice” that is commonly used in speeches or formal writing. It carries a sense of repetition and might be seen as slightly more literary or old-fashioned. For example:
- Ano eiga wa futatabi mitakatta desu. (あの映画は再び見たかったです。) – “I wanted to watch that movie again.”
This word emphasizes the aspect of repetition and implies a stronger desire to do something again.
Informal Ways to Say “Twice”
In casual conversations or when speaking among friends, there are some informal expressions to convey “twice” in Japanese. Here are a couple of commonly used informal phrases:
1. Nido (二度 / にど):
Similar to the formal expression “ni-do,” this is the informal equivalent. It is widely used in everyday conversations and has a less polite tone. For example:
- Kono ashita wa nido yasumi ga aru. (この明日は二度休みがある。) – “I have two days off tomorrow.”
- Ano raamen o nido tabetai. (あのラーメンを二度食べたい。) – “I want to eat that ramen twice.”
When using “nido,” the particle “ni” (に) is still necessary to indicate the number of times.
2. Mō ichido (もう一度 / もういちど):
This phrase translates to “once more” or “one more time” and is a common way to indicate doing something again. Although it is more versatile and can be used formally, it is primarily used in informal conversations. For example:
- Mō ichido yatte miyo! ( もう一度やってみよう！) – “Let’s try it once more!”
- Ame ga futte shimatta kara, mō ichido asobou yo. (雨が降ってしまったから、もう一度遊ぼうよ。) – “Since it started raining, let’s play one more time.”
“Mō ichido” implies a sense of eagerness or willingness to do something again.
Regional Variations
While the aforementioned expressions are commonly used throughout Japan, it’s worth noting that there might be some regional variations. Depending on the area, certain dialects or speech patterns may influence how “twice” is expressed. Here are a couple of regional variations:
1. Nikai (二回 / 二回り / にかい):
In some regions, people use “nikai” instead of “ni-do” or “nido.” This expression is preferred in parts of Western Japan, including Kansai and Hiroshima. For example:
- Sayōnara wa nikai iwareru node, ki o tsukete kudasai. (さようならは二回言われるので、気をつけてください。) – “Please take care since you will be bid goodbye twice.”
Remember that this regional variation can be considered less common in other parts of Japan.
2. Futakai (二階 /ふたかい):
In Okinawa, the expression “futakai” is often used instead of “ni-do.” While it technically means “second floor,” it is also colloquially used to mean “twice.” For example:
- Kenka wa futakai yamenasai. (ケンカは二階やめなさい。) – “Stop fighting (each other) twice.”
Keep in mind that using “futakai” to mean “twice” might be misunderstood in other regions of Japan.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You now know various ways to say “twice” in Japanese. In formal situations, “ni-do” or “futatabi” are appropriate choices, while “nido” or “mō ichido” are better suited for informal conversations. Don’t forget the regional variations like “nikai” or “futakai,” which might be useful depending on the context or location. Keep practicing these expressions to become more confident in your Japanese language skills. Ganbatte kudasai! (頑張ってください！) – Good luck!
