Translation guide
The English phrase "such and such" is used as a placeholder for unspecified things, people, or details. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is これこれ (korekore), used in similar vague reference contexts. Other expressions like しかじか (shikajika) and なになに (naninani) are used in specific situations, such as storytelling or asking for names.
Referring to something without specifying exactly what it is, often used when the details are understood from context or intentionally left vague.
The most common and versatile placeholder for unspecified things, similar to 'such and such' or 'this and that'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
これこれの理由で遅れました。
I was late for such and such reasons.
彼はこれこれの場所に住んでいます。
He lives in such and such a place.
Often used in storytelling or formal contexts to mean 'such and such', especially when recounting events or details. More literary than これこれ.
Used as a placeholder for names or specific items when asking or listing, like 'what's-his-name' or 'such and such'. Often used in questions or when prompting for information.
これこれ is the default placeholder for unspecified things. しかじか is more formal and often used in narratives. なになに is specifically for names or items when the speaker expects the listener to fill in the blank.
これこれの本を探しています。
I'm looking for such and such a book.
しかじかの経緯でこうなりました。
It turned out this way due to such and such circumstances.
なになに駅で降りてください。
Please get off at such and such station.
I will be absent due to such and such circumstances.
There was a call from Mr. Such-and-such.