Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Every" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "every", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
毎週
まいしゅう (maishuu)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
毎年
まいとし (maitoshi)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "every" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 毎週 and 毎年.
In Japanese, 毎週 (まいしゅう (maishuu)) is typically associated with "every week" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Indicates an action or event that occurs weekly. Can be used for regular hobbies, meetings, or classes..
On the other hand, 毎年 (まいとし (maitoshi)) maps to "every year" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Indicates an action or event that occurs yearly. 「毎年」 can also be read 'mainen', but 'maitoshi' is more common in N5 level spoken Japanese.. A literal translation of "every" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "毎週"
毎週、テニスをします。
I play tennis every week.
Bilingual Context for "毎年"
毎年、家族と旅行に行きます。
I go on a trip with my family every year.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ___ 、テニスをします。" (Meaning: "I play tennis every week.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "毎週" fits here because it means "every week" in the context of: "I play tennis every week.". "毎年" represents "every year".