Translation guide
In Japanese, the first day of the month is expressed with a specific word, ついたち, which is used only for the first day. Other days use the number + 日 (にち/か etc.). This word is essential for dates and scheduling.
Referring to the first day of any month in dates, schedules, or general statements.
This is the standard word for the first day of the month. It is used in dates and when talking about the day itself. Note that it is not formed by combining the number 1 (いち) with 日 (にち); it is an irregular reading.
今日は４月１日です。
Today is April 1st.
会議は来月の１日です。
The meeting is on the 1st of next month.
This is the kanji representation of ついたち. It is commonly used in written dates, calendars, and formal documents. The reading is the same.
Literally 'beginning of the month', this phrase can refer to the first day or the first few days of the month. It is less specific than ついたち but useful in contexts like 'early in the month'.
A formal or literary term for the first day of the month, often used in traditional contexts or written language. Rare in everyday speech.
いちにち means 'one day' (a duration), not 'the first day of the month'. Using it for a date would be incorrect. Always use ついたち for the first day of the month.
✕ 今日は４月いちにちです。
Incorrect: Today is April 1st.
◯ 今日は４月ついたちです。
Correct: Today is April 1st.
The deadline is May 1st.
月初めはいつも忙しい。
I'm always busy at the beginning of the month.
On the morning of the first day of the month, I visit the shrine.