Translation guide
The English verb 'arrive' is used to describe reaching a destination. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 着く (つく), but other expressions are used depending on context, such as arriving at a decision, a new stage, or an event. This guide covers natural ways to express 'arrive' in various situations.
To express that someone or something has reached a place after traveling.
The most common and general verb for 'arrive'. Used for people, vehicles, and deliveries. Can be used in both casual and formal settings.
駅に着いたら電話してください。
Please call me when you arrive at the station.
荷物は明日着きます。
The package will arrive tomorrow.
A more formal, written-style verb often used in announcements, schedules, and official contexts. It is a suru-verb.
飛行機は午後3時に到着します。
The airplane will arrive at 3 PM.
Used specifically for items being delivered or reaching someone, such as mail, packages, or messages. It is intransitive.
手紙が届きました。
The letter arrived.
Literally 'to come', but often used when the speaker is at the destination or when referring to the arrival of a person or thing from the perspective of the destination.
彼はもうすぐ来ます。
He will arrive soon.
To express reaching a decision, agreement, or understanding after consideration.
A formal phrase meaning 'to reach a conclusion'. Often used in business or academic contexts.
話し合いの結果、結論に達しました。
As a result of the discussion, we arrived at a conclusion.
Means 'to reach an agreement'. Used in negotiations or formal discussions.
両社は合意に達した。
The two companies arrived at an agreement.
A more casual way to say 'decide' or 'arrive at a decision'. Commonly used in everyday conversation.
To express reaching a particular point in a process, life, or time.
A formal expression meaning 'to reach (a stage/point)'. Often used in written language to describe a process or outcome.
このプロジェクトは最終段階に至った。
This project has arrived at the final stage.
A very common and versatile pattern meaning 'to become' or 'to reach (a state/time)'. Used for ages, seasons, and milestones.
春になりました。
Spring has arrived.
彼は40歳になった。
He has arrived at the age of 40.
To express showing up or appearing at a social event, party, or meeting.
Means 'to appear' or 'to show up'. Often used when someone arrives unexpectedly or makes an appearance.
彼はパーティーに突然現れた。
He suddenly arrived at the party.
Again, 'to come' is natural when the speaker is at the event location.
彼女はまだ来ていません。
She hasn't arrived yet.
着く (つく) is the everyday verb for 'arrive', suitable for most situations. 到着する (とうちゃくする) is more formal and often used in written announcements, schedules, and public transport. In casual speech, 着く is preferred.
今、駅に着いたよ。
I just arrived at the station. (casual)
電車はまもなく到着します。
The train will arrive shortly. (formal announcement)
While 到着する is a direct translation of 'arrive', using it in casual conversation can sound stiff or overly formal. Stick to 着く for everyday speech.
バスは何時に着きますか？
What time does the bus arrive?
夜遅くホテルに着きました。
We arrived at the hotel late at night.
荷物がまだ届いていません。
The package hasn't arrived yet.
Have you arrived at a decision on which restaurant to go to?