Translation guide
Expresses that something happens sometimes, but not regularly or frequently. Japanese uses various adverbs and phrases to convey this, with nuances of frequency and formality.
Express that an action or event happens from time to time, without specifying exact frequency.
Emphasize that something happens rarely, less often than 'sometimes'.
Emphasizes rarity, like 'very occasionally' or 'once in a blue moon'.
ごくたまにしか会えない。
We can only meet very occasionally.
Means 'rarely'. Can be used in both casual and formal contexts.
Focus on the lack of pattern or schedule, rather than just frequency.
Means 'irregularly' or 'sporadically'. Often used for events without a fixed schedule.
その会合は不定期に開かれる。
The meetings are held occasionally, without a set schedule.
時々 is neutral and can be used in any situation. たまに is more casual and implies a lower frequency. In formal writing, 時折 is preferred over たまに.
English 'occasionally' can sometimes be translated as 時々, but in many contexts たまに or other phrases are more natural. Overusing 時々 can sound stiff in casual speech.
The most common and neutral way to say 'occasionally' or 'sometimes'. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
私は時々映画を見に行きます。
I occasionally go to see movies.
Very common in casual conversation. Slightly less frequent than 時々, closer to 'once in a while'.
たまに外食する。
I eat out occasionally.
A slightly more literary or formal alternative to 時々. Often used in writing.
時折、昔の友達から手紙が来る。
Occasionally, I receive letters from old friends.
Means 'at times' or 'on occasion'. Often used when contrasting with usual behavior.
時には一人で旅行するのもいい。
Occasionally, it's nice to travel alone.
It occasionally snows here.
Means 'intermittently'. Used when something occurs in bursts with pauses.
雨が断続的に降った。
It rained occasionally throughout the day.