Translation guide
How to express 'a few times' in Japanese, covering frequency, repetition, and occasional occurrences.
Expressing that something happened or is done a small number of times, typically 2–4 times.
The most direct and neutral way to say 'a few times'. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
I've seen that movie a few times.
Literally 'some number of times', very common in casual conversation. Implies an unspecified small number.
I tried a few times, but it didn't work.
More formal or literary than 数回. Often used in written language or formal speech.
This phenomenon has been observed a few times.
Literally 'two or three times', a very specific way to say 'a few times'. Common in both speech and writing.
I've met him a few times.
Means 'about a few times', emphasizing the approximate nature. Somewhat formal.
Please limit use to about a few times.
Expressing that something happens occasionally, not regularly, but a few times over a period.
Means 'sometimes', implying a few times here and there. Very common and natural.
I go to that café a few times (occasionally).
Means 'once in a while' or 'occasionally', often used for infrequent events. Casual.
Similar to 何回か but using 度 (times/occurrences). Slightly more formal or written nuance.
Emphasizing that an action was repeated a few times, often in succession.
数回 is neutral and precise ('a few times'). 何回か is more vague and conversational ('some number of times'). 何度も implies repetition and can mean 'many times', so use with care when you mean only a few.
English 'a few times' can often be translated as 数回, but in casual speech, 何回か or 時々 may be more natural depending on context. Do not use 少ない回数 (literally 'few times') as it sounds unnatural.
I watch movies a few times (occasionally).
I warned him a few times, but it didn't improve.