Translation guide
The English phrase 'a period' most commonly refers to a length of time, a punctuation mark, or menstruation. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Referring to a duration or span of time.
General term for a period or interval of time. Used in both formal and everyday contexts.
This period was very busy.
The application period is until next month.
Refers to a season, phase, or time when something happens. Often used for natural or life stages.
Right now is just the cherry blossom period.
Adolescence is a difficult period.
Historical period or era. Used for longer spans like decades or centuries.
The Edo period was a peaceful era.
A short period, a while. Often used in literary or poetic contexts.
We had a pleasant period (a while).
The dot at the end of a sentence.
Referring to the menstrual cycle.
Standard and most common term for menstruation. Used in everyday conversation and medical contexts.
Euphemistic phrase meaning 'monthly thing'. Used mainly by women in casual conversation.
Slang abbreviation of 'menstruation'. Used among close friends, very casual.
The word 生理 (seiri) only means menstruation or physiology. It cannot be used for a punctuation mark or a time period.
期間 (kikan) emphasizes a defined interval with start and end points, while 時期 (jiki) refers to a phase or season characterized by certain conditions. Use 期間 for deadlines and schedules, 時期 for natural timing.
I will be in Japan for a short period.
She's on her period.
この件にピリオドを打とう。
Let's put a period (end) to this matter.
My period came.
My stomach hurts because of my period.