Translation guide
The English phrase 'as always' is used to indicate that something happens in the usual manner or that a situation is unchanged. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adverbs and set phrases, with the most common being 相変わらず (aikawarazu). The choice depends on nuance, formality, and whether the focus is on a continuing state or a habitual action.
To express that a situation or behavior is unchanged from the usual state, often with a nuance of 'still' or 'as ever'.
The most common and versatile equivalent. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts, and works in casual and formal speech. It often carries a slight nuance of 'as ever' or 'still the same'.
He's busy as always.
As always, nothing has changed.
Literally 'as usual' or 'in the usual way'. It emphasizes that something is done in the same manner as always. Slightly more casual than 相変わらず, and often used for actions or routines.
He was late, as always.
As always, I start work after drinking coffee.
Similar to いつも通り, but slightly more conversational. It means 'like always' or 'as usual'. Often used to describe a state or manner.
She was smiling, as always.
A more formal and literary expression meaning 'as usual' or 'as normal'. Often used in written language or official contexts.
Business will be conducted as usual.
To emphasize that a negative situation or habit persists unchanged, often with a tone of resignation or criticism.
To indicate that something is expected or happens without exception, similar to 'as always' in the sense of 'of course'.
Means 'as expected' or 'sure enough'. It is used when a predictable (often negative) outcome occurs, similar to 'as always' when something happens as you thought it would.
As always, he was late again.
A casual adverb meaning 'as I thought' or 'after all'. It can be used like 'as always' when confirming a predictable pattern.
相変わらず emphasizes that a state or situation remains unchanged, often with a nuance of 'still' or 'as ever'. It can be used for both positive and negative situations. いつも通り focuses on the manner or routine being the same as usual, and is more about actions or processes. For example, 相変わらず忙しい (busy as always, implying the busy state continues) vs. いつも通り忙しい (busy as usual, implying the daily routine is busy).
Do not directly translate 'as always' word-for-word as いつものように常に or similar. The natural Japanese expressions are set phrases like 相変わらず or いつも通り. Using a literal translation will sound unnatural.
An emphatic version of 相変わらず, often used to express stronger exasperation or criticism. It sounds a bit old-fashioned or dramatic.
As always, he showed up late.
やっぱり、彼は来なかった。
As always, he didn't come.