Translation guide
Expresses 'at that time' in Japanese, covering past, future, and conditional contexts. The most common and versatile option is その時 (sono toki). Other expressions add nuance like 'just then', 'in those days', or 'at that moment'.
at that time (general)
just at that moment
in those days
To refer to a specific point or period in time previously mentioned or understood from context, without strong emphasis on immediacy or era.
The most common and neutral way to say 'at that time'. Works for both past and future contexts.
At that time, he didn't say anything.
Refers to 'around that time' or 'in those days', emphasizing a broader period rather than a specific moment. Often used for past eras.
Means 'at that time' or 'in those days', often used in formal or written contexts to refer to a past period.
A very formal expression meaning 'at that time' or 'on that occasion'. Often used in business letters or polite speech.
To emphasize that something happened exactly at that instant, often with a sense of coincidence or suddenness.
Adds 'choudo' (exactly) to 'sono toki' for emphasis. Very common in storytelling.
To refer to a future point in time, often in conditional sentences or when making plans.
Means 'when that time comes'. Used for future events that are expected or planned.
To talk about a past era or a longer period in the past, not just a single moment.
Means 'in those days' or 'back then', referring to a nostalgic or remembered period.
English 'at' is not directly translated. Do not use に (ni) after その時 in most cases. その時に is possible but often omitted in natural Japanese.
その時 (sono toki) refers to a specific point in time, while その頃 (sono koro) refers to a broader period or era. Use その時 for a moment, その頃 for 'around that time' or 'in those days'.
When that time comes, please let me know.
その頃、私は学生でした。
At that time, I was a student.
当時、この町はとても静かだった。
At that time, this town was very quiet.
その節は大変お世話になりました。
Thank you very much for your help at that time.
Just at that moment, the phone rang.
Literally 'that instant'. Stronger emphasis on a split-second moment.
At that moment, everything changed.
Means 'just at that moment' or 'no sooner than'. Often used with '~た途端に' pattern to indicate something happened right after.
The moment I opened the door, the cat jumped out.
I'll contact you again when that time comes.
Simply 'at that time' with topic marker は, often used in conditional contexts.
If it rains, it will be canceled at that time.
Back then, every day was an adventure.
Also used for 'in those days', slightly more formal and often used in historical or biographical contexts.
People at that time believed such things.