Translation guide
Describes someone who is consistently on time for appointments, meetings, or deadlines. In Japanese, this is expressed through adjectives, verbs, and set phrases that emphasize strict adherence to scheduled times.
Describing a person who is habitually punctual.
Literally 'accurate with time'. A common, neutral way to describe someone who is punctual.
彼は時間に正確な人です。
He is a punctual person.
Literally 'to protect time'. A very common verb phrase meaning to be punctual or to keep to a schedule.
彼女はいつも時間を守ります。
She is always punctual.
Describes someone who is meticulous, methodical, and punctual. Implies a broader personality trait of being orderly.
彼は几帳面で、遅刻したことがない。
He is punctual and has never been late.
Literally 'does not be late'. A straightforward way to say someone is punctual by negating lateness.
彼は会議に遅刻しない。
He is punctual for meetings.
Describing an action of arriving or doing something exactly at the scheduled time.
Means 'on time' or 'as scheduled'. Used as an adverb to describe punctual actions.
電車は時間通りに来ました。
The train arrived punctually.
Means 'at the appointed time'. Slightly more formal, often used for transportation or official events.
飛行機は定刻に出発した。
The plane departed punctually.
Means 'exactly' or 'sharp' when referring to time. Emphasizes precision.
Expressing the importance of punctuality in Japanese society.
A set phrase meaning 'strict observance of time'. Often used in rules or instructions.
集合時間は厳守してください。
Please be punctual for the meeting time.
Literally '5-minutes-before action'. A common concept of arriving early to show punctuality and respect.
日本では5分前行動が求められる。
In Japan, being 5 minutes early is expected.
There is no single Japanese adjective that directly translates to 'punctual' in all contexts. Using 時間に正確 or 時間を守る is more natural than trying to force a one-word equivalent.
In Japan, being 'on time' often means arriving 5–10 minutes early. Being exactly on time can sometimes be perceived as late. The phrase 5分前行動 reflects this cultural norm.
彼はとても時間に正確だ。
He is very punctual.
予約の時間は厳守してください。
Please be punctual for the appointment.
彼は3時きっかりに来た。
He came at 3 o'clock sharp.