Translation guide
Expressing 'this year' in Japanese is straightforward, but the choice of word depends on formality and context. The most common word is 今年 (ことし), used in most situations. In formal or written contexts, 本年 (ほんねん) is preferred. There is also a less common term 当年 (とうねん), mainly used in official documents.
Referring to the current calendar year in everyday conversation or writing.
今年 (ことし) is the everyday word for 'this year'. 本年 (ほんねん) is its formal counterpart, often seen in New Year's greetings, business correspondence, and official announcements. Using 本年 in casual conversation would sound overly stiff.
今年は何をしましたか？
What did you do this year?
本年も変わらぬご愛顧を賜りますようお願い申し上げます。
We ask for your continued patronage this year.
When combined with other time words, 今年 is used directly. For example, 'this year's spring' is 今年の春 (ことしのはる). Note that 'this year' is often omitted when it's clear from context, especially in Japanese where time references are frequently dropped.
I'm going to Japan this year.
今年の夏はとても暑かった。
This summer was very hot.
A formal equivalent of 今年, used in business, official documents, and formal speeches.
本年もよろしくお願いいたします。
We look forward to your continued support this year.
本年度の予算が承認されました。
This fiscal year's budget has been approved.
A formal term meaning 'this year' or 'the current year', used in official documents, statistics, or legal contexts. Rare in everyday speech.
当年の収穫は例年より少なかった。
This year's harvest was smaller than usual.