Translation guide
The English word 'multiple' is used to describe something that consists of, involves, or relates to more than one element. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; the best translation depends on the context. Common approaches include using prefixes like 複数 (ふくすう) for 'multiple/several', 多 (た) for 'many/multi-', or specific counters and phrases. This guide covers the most useful ways to express 'multiple' in natural Japanese.
Expressing that there is more than one of something, often in formal or neutral contexts.
The most direct and common translation for 'multiple' when referring to a number of items, people, or instances. It is a noun that can be used as a prefix (複数の + noun) or as a standalone noun. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
複数の候補者から選ぶ。
Choose from multiple candidates.
この問題には複数の原因がある。
There are multiple causes for this problem.
Means 'many' or 'a large number'. It emphasizes a greater quantity than 複数. Often used in formal contexts or when the number is significant.
多数の人が集まった。
Multiple (many) people gathered.
Means 'several' or 'a few'. More casual than 複数. Used when the exact number is not specified but is more than one.
いくつかの理由で遅れた。
I was late for multiple (several) reasons.
Forming compound words meaning 'multi-' or 'many-', often in technical or formal terms.
The prefix 多 (た) attaches to nouns to mean 'multi-' or 'many'. Common in words like 多目的 (multipurpose), 多国籍 (multinational).
Used as a prefix to mean 'multiple' in a countable sense. More specific than 多, which implies 'many'.
複数回のテスト
multiple tests (several times)
Describing an action that occurs more than once.
Means 'many times' or 'repeatedly'. Very common in spoken Japanese.
何度も同じことを言わせないで。
Don't make me say the same thing multiple times.
Literally 'multiple times'. More formal than 何度も, often used in written or business contexts.
複数回にわたって説明した。
I explained it multiple times.
Referring to a test or question with several possible answers.
The standard term for 'multiple-choice' in educational contexts. Often shortened to 多肢選択 (たしせんたく).
試験は多肢選択式です。
The exam is multiple choice.
A shorter, more casual way to say 'multiple choice'. Can be used in everyday conversation.
選択式の問題
multiple-choice questions
Referring to multiples in arithmetic.
複数 simply means 'more than one' and is neutral. 多数 implies a large number, often used in formal reports. いくつか is casual and means 'a few' or 'several', not necessarily 'many'.
複数の意見がある。
There are multiple opinions.
多数の意見がある。
There are many opinions.
いくつかの意見がある。
There are several opinions.
The katakana word マルチプル is rarely used in natural Japanese except in some technical or borrowed contexts (e.g., マルチプルチョイス). It is better to use the native Japanese expressions above.
彼女は複数の仕事をしている。
She has multiple jobs.
そのシステムは多言語に対応している。
The system supports multiple languages.
その映画を何度も見た。
I've seen that movie multiple times.