Translation guide
The most common way to say 'next year' in Japanese is 来年 (らいねん). However, in formal or written contexts, 翌年 (よくねん) or 明年 (みょうねん) may be used. The choice depends on the level of formality and the specific nuance of 'the following year' versus 'the upcoming year'.
Express 'next year' in casual and neutral contexts, referring to the upcoming calendar year.
The standard, neutral word for 'next year'. Used in everyday conversation and writing.
来年、日本に行くつもりです。
I plan to go to Japan next year.
来年の春に結婚します。
I'm getting married next spring.
Refer to 'the next year' after a specific point in time, often in narratives or formal writing.
Means 'the following year' relative to a previously mentioned time. Common in written narratives, news, and formal contexts.
彼は大学を卒業し、翌年、会社を設立した。
He graduated from university, and the following year, he founded a company.
その事件の翌年、新しい法律が施行された。
The year after that incident, a new law was enacted.
Also means 'the following year', but is less common and more formal than 翌年. Used in official documents or historical contexts.
計画は次年以降に延期された。
The plan was postponed to the following year and beyond.
Use a more formal term for 'next year' in speeches, announcements, or written correspondence.
A formal term for 'next year', often used in official announcements, business contexts, or New Year's greetings. Less common in casual speech.
明年の業績目標を発表します。
We will announce next year's performance targets.
明年もよろしくお願いいたします。
I look forward to your continued support next year as well.
来年 (らいねん) is the default word for 'next year' in everyday language. 翌年 (よくねん) means 'the following year' and is relative to a specific event, often used in narratives. 明年 (みょうねん) is a formal synonym for 来年, used in official or ceremonial contexts. Avoid using 翌年 when simply referring to the upcoming calendar year without a prior reference point.
Be careful not to mix up 来年 (next year) with 去年 (きょねん, last year) or 今年 (ことし, this year). The kanji 来 means 'coming', while 去 means 'past'.