Translation guide
The English word 'someday' refers to an unspecified time in the future. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is いつか, but other expressions exist depending on nuance, such as 将来 (in the future) or そのうち (eventually).
Expressing that something will happen at some point in the future, without specifying when.
The most direct and common translation for 'someday'. Used in both casual and formal contexts. Can be placed at the beginning or within a sentence.
いつか日本に行きたい。
I want to go to Japan someday.
Referring to a time far in the future, often with a sense of uncertainty or hope.
Literally 'distant future'. Used when talking about something that may happen far ahead.
遠い将来、人類は火星に住めるかもしれない。
Someday in the distant future, humans may live on Mars.
いつか is a neutral 'someday' that can be used for any future event. そのうち implies a more passive expectation that something will happen naturally, often without effort. For example, いつか勉強します (I will study someday) suggests a personal intention, while そのうちわかる (You'll understand eventually) suggests that understanding will come with time.
ある日 means 'one day' in the past, as in 'One day, a stranger appeared.' Do not use it for future 'someday'. For future, use いつか.
いつかお金持ちになる。
Someday I'll be rich.
いつかまた会おう。
We'll meet again someday.
いつかまた会いましょう。
Let's meet again someday.
Means 'in the future' and is more formal or abstract. Often used when talking about long-term plans or career goals.
将来、医者になりたい。
Someday I want to become a doctor.
Means 'eventually' or 'sooner or later'. Implies that something will happen naturally over time, without a specific plan.
そのうち雨がやむだろう。
It will stop raining someday.
A more poetic or emphatic version of いつか. Often used in songs, literature, or emotional statements.
いつの日か夢が叶うと信じている。
I believe that someday my dream will come true.
A colloquial phrase meaning 'I don't know when, but...'. Used to express a vague intention for the future.
いつになるかわからないけど、いつか海外で働いてみたい。
I don't know when, but someday I'd like to work abroad.