Translation guide
The English phrase 'a period' most commonly refers to a length of time, a punctuation mark, or menstruation. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Referring to a duration or span of time.
The dot at the end of a sentence.
The Japanese term for the full stop or period punctuation mark. Used in writing contexts.
Referring to the menstrual cycle.
Standard and most common term for menstruation. Used in everyday conversation and medical contexts.
The word 生理 (seiri) only means menstruation or physiology. It cannot be used for a punctuation mark or a time period.
期間 (kikan) emphasizes a defined interval with start and end points, while 時期 (jiki) refers to a phase or season characterized by certain conditions. Use 期間 for deadlines and schedules, 時期 for natural timing.
短期間、日本にいます。
I will be in Japan for a short period.
彼女は生理中です。
She's on her period.
This period was very busy.
申請期間は来月までです。
The application period is until next month.
Refers to a season, phase, or time when something happens. Often used for natural or life stages.
今はちょうど桜の時期です。
Right now is just the cherry blossom period.
思春期は難しい時期だ。
Adolescence is a difficult period.
Historical period or era. Used for longer spans like decades or centuries.
江戸時代は平和な時代だった。
The Edo period was a peaceful era.
A short period, a while. Often used in literary or poetic contexts.
楽しいひとときを過ごした。
We had a pleasant period (a while).
文の終わりには句点を打ちます。
Put a period at the end of a sentence.
Loanword from English, commonly understood, especially in sports or metaphorical 'end' contexts.
この件にピリオドを打とう。
Let's put a period (end) to this matter.
Euphemistic phrase meaning 'monthly thing'. Used mainly by women in casual conversation.
月のものが来た。
My period came.
Slang abbreviation of 'menstruation'. Used among close friends, very casual.
メンスでお腹が痛い。
My stomach hurts because of my period.