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Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "First" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "first", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

まず

まず (mazu)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

久しぶりに

ひさしぶりに (hisashiburi ni)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "first" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between まず and 久しぶりに. In Japanese, まず (まず (mazu)) is typically associated with "first of all, to begin with" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Used when listing steps or priorities. It indicates the very first action to be taken in a sequence.. On the other hand, 久しぶりに (ひさしぶりに (hisashiburi ni)) maps to "for the first time in a long time; after a long time" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents This adverbial phrase indicates that an action or event is happening again after a significant period of time has passed. The standalone phrase 「久しぶり!」. A literal translation of "first" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "まず"
家に帰ったら、まず手を洗います。
When I get home, first I wash my hands.
Bilingual Context for "久しぶりに"
久しぶりに故郷の友達に会いました。
I met a friend from my hometown for the first time in a long time.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "家に帰ったら、 ___ 手を洗います。" (Meaning: "When I get home, first I wash my hands.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "まず" fits here because it means "first of all, to begin with" in the context of: "When I get home, first I wash my hands.". "久しぶりに" represents "for the first time in a long time; after a long time".