Translation guide
The English word 'occasion' covers several distinct meanings: a particular time or event, a special event, a suitable opportunity, and a reason or cause. Japanese expresses these with different words and patterns, and often the most natural translation depends on context rather than a single equivalent.
Referring to a specific moment or occurrence, often in phrases like 'on that occasion' or 'on several occasions'.
The most common and natural way to say 'on that occasion' or 'at that time'. Used in many set phrases.
その時、彼は何も言わなかった。
On that occasion, he said nothing.
困った時はお互い様だ。
We help each other on difficult occasions.
Used for hypothetical or conditional occasions, like 'in case of' or 'when such an occasion arises'.
Means 'on several occasions' or 'a number of times'. Very natural.
彼には何度か会ったことがある。
I have met him on several occasions.
Means 'on many occasions' or 'frequently'. Slightly formal.
Referring to a formal or significant event, such as a wedding, ceremony, or party.
The closest equivalent to 'occasion' as a special event. Often used in formal contexts.
このような機会にご招待いただきありがとうございます。
Thank you for inviting me on such an occasion.
特別な機会のために取っておいたワインです。
This is wine I saved for a special occasion.
Refers to a planned event or function, like a school event or annual festival.
Loanword for 'event', often used for casual or commercial occasions.
Expressing that a moment is right for doing something, like 'take the occasion to...' or 'a good occasion to...'.
Also used for 'opportunity'. 'この機会に' means 'on this occasion' or 'taking this opportunity'.
この機会に皆さんに感謝の気持ちを伝えたい。
I'd like to take this occasion to express my gratitude to everyone.
Casual loanword for 'chance', often used when occasion means a lucky break.
これが最後のチャンスだ。
This is the last occasion (chance).
Used in formal expressions like 'to have occasion to do something' meaning to have a reason or need.
Literally 'have an opportunity to', but often translates 'have occasion to'.
彼に会う機会があったら、よろしく伝えてください。
If you have occasion to see him, please give him my regards.
Means 'have a need to', used when 'occasion' implies necessity.
その問題について話し合う必要があった。
We had occasion to discuss the issue.
場合 (baai) is mainly for hypothetical or conditional situations. For a specific past occasion, use 時 (toki) instead.
その時は本当に驚いた。
On that occasion I was really surprised.
機会 (kikai) is more formal and often used for planned or meaningful occasions. チャンス (chansu) is casual and implies a lucky or timely opportunity.
この機会を逃さないでください。
Please don't miss this occasion (formal).
これが最後のチャンスだよ。
This is your last chance (casual).
そこには何度か行ったことがあります。
I've been there on several occasions.
彼女の誕生日にパーティーを開きました。
On the occasion of her birthday, we threw a party.
Often simply 'on her birthday' without a word for 'occasion'.
On the occasion of an emergency, please call this number.
度々ご迷惑をおかけして申し訳ありません。
I apologize for causing trouble on many occasions.
I went to Kyoto for a school occasion (event).
このイベントは年に一度の大きな機会です。
This event is a big occasion once a year.