Translation guide
The English phrase 'at times' means 'sometimes' or 'occasionally'. In Japanese, this idea is expressed through adverbs, set phrases, or grammatical patterns rather than a single direct translation.
Expressing that something happens from time to time, but not always.
The most common and neutral way to say 'sometimes' or 'at times'. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
時々、映画を見に行きます。
I go to see movies at times.
彼は時々遅刻する。
He is late at times.
Means 'occasionally' or 'once in a while'. Slightly less frequent than 時々, and very common in casual speech.
たまに外食する。
I eat out at times.
A grammatical pattern meaning 'there are times when...' or 'sometimes...'. Attach to the plain form of a verb or adjective.
週末に仕事をすることもある。
At times I work on weekends.
彼はとても親切なこともある。
He can be very kind at times.
A slightly formal or literary word for 'at times' or 'occasionally'. Often used in writing.
時々 (tokidoki) is the standard 'sometimes'. たまに (tamani) implies less frequency, closer to 'once in a while'. ～こともある (koto mo aru) is a pattern that emphasizes the existence of such occasions, often used for unexpected or noteworthy events.
時々散歩する。
I sometimes take a walk.
たまに散歩する。
I occasionally take a walk.
散歩することもある。
There are times when I take a walk.
折々、故郷を思い出す。
At times I remember my hometown.