Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Frequently" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "frequently", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
しきりに
しきりに (shikirini)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
頻りに
しきりに (shikiri ni)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "frequently" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between しきりに and 頻りに.
In Japanese, しきりに (しきりに (shikirini)) is typically associated with "frequently, repeatedly, constantly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes an action or state that happens very often or without ceasing. Often implies persistence or a somewhat annoying frequency..
On the other hand, 頻りに (しきりに (shikiri ni)) maps to "frequently; repeatedly; often; eagerly; earnestly" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Can describe actions that happen repeatedly and often, or a strong, earnest desire/action. It implies persistence. 何度も繰り返される行動や、熱心に、強く何かを求める様子を表します。. A literal translation of "frequently" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "しきりに"
彼はしきりに窓の外を見ていた。
He was constantly looking out the window.
Bilingual Context for "頻りに"
彼は彼女に、もう一度会いたいと頻りに頼んだ。
He earnestly asked her again and again to meet him.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は ＿＿＿ 窓の外を見ていた。" (Meaning: "He was constantly looking out the window.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "しきりに" fits here because it means "frequently, repeatedly, constantly" in the context of: "He was constantly looking out the window.". "頻りに" represents "frequently; repeatedly; often; eagerly; earnestly".