Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Next" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "next", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
来月
らいげつ (raigetsu)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
次に
つぎに (tsugini)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "next" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 来月 and 次に.
In Japanese, 来月 (らいげつ (raigetsu)) is typically associated with "next month" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Refers to the month following the current one. Used for future plans or upcoming events..
On the other hand, 次に (つぎに (tsugini)) maps to "next; subsequently" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents 物事の順序や時間の流れを示すときに使われる副詞です。. A literal translation of "next" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "来月"
来月、日本へ行きます。
I will go to Japan next month.
Bilingual Context for "次に"
まず手を洗い、次にご飯を食べます。
First, wash your hands, then eat your meal.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ 、日本へ行きます。" (Meaning: "I will go to Japan next month.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "来月" fits here because it means "next month" in the context of: "I will go to Japan next month.". "次に" represents "next; subsequently".