Translation guide
The English phrase 'in time' has several distinct meanings. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on whether they mean 'not late', 'eventually', 'in rhythm', or other uses.
To express arriving, finishing, or doing something before it is too late.
The most common way to say 'to be in time' for something. It implies arriving or completing something before a deadline or scheduled time.
電車に間に合った。
I was in time for the train.
会議に間に合うように急いだ。
I hurried so I would be in time for the meeting.
The te-form used to connect clauses, meaning 'being in time and...' or 'in time to...'.
間に合ってよかった。
I'm glad I was in time.
Literally 'without being late'. Used when emphasizing punctuality.
遅れずに来てください。
Please come in time (don't be late).
To express that something will happen after a period, often implying 'sooner or later' or 'in the course of time'.
Means 'before long' or 'eventually'. Often used in written or slightly formal contexts.
やがて雨は止むだろう。
In time, the rain will stop.
Means 'sooner or later' or 'eventually'. Common in both spoken and written Japanese.
いずれ分かるだろう。
You'll understand in time.
Casual expression meaning 'before long' or 'one of these days'. Often used in conversation.
そのうち慣れるよ。
You'll get used to it in time.
Literally 'if time passes'. A more literal way to say 'in time', often used in reflective or philosophical statements.
時が経てば痛みも和らぐ。
In time, the pain will ease.
To express being synchronized with music or a beat.
Means 'in time with the rhythm'. Used for dancing, clapping, or playing music.
リズムに合わせて手を叩いた。
I clapped my hands in time with the rhythm.
Means 'in time with the beat'. More traditional term, often used in music or dance contexts.
拍子に合わせて踊る。
Dance in time with the beat.
To express doing something within a specified time frame.
Attach to a time expression to mean 'within ~'. E.g., 一時間以内に (within one hour).
一時間以内に戻ります。
I'll be back in time (within an hour).
Means 'by (a certain time)'. Used for deadlines.
明日までに提出してください。
Please submit it in time (by tomorrow).
「間に合う」 focuses on successfully meeting a deadline or catching something, while 「遅れずに」 emphasizes the act of not being late. 「間に合う」 is more common for 'in time'.
「時間内に」 means 'within the time period' but is not a natural translation for 'in time' when meaning 'not late'. Use 「間に合う」 instead.
映画に間に合うかな？
Will we be in time for the movie?
彼はぎりぎり間に合った。
He arrived just in time.
そのうち忘れるよ。
In time, you'll forget about it.