Translation guide
Expresses that an action is done voluntarily, deliberately, or out of personal preference, rather than by obligation or accident.
The speaker does something because they want to, not because they are forced.
Literally 'by one's own will'. A clear, natural way to emphasize voluntary action.
彼は自分の意志でその仕事を引き受けた。
He took on that job by choice.
Means 'willingly' or 'on one's own initiative'. Slightly more formal.
The action is intentional, not accidental.
The most common word for 'on purpose'. Can be used in both positive and negative contexts.
Indicates a personal preference or selection among options.
Means 'by preference' or 'willingly'. Often used with verbs like 選ぶ (choose) or 使う (use).
The English phrase 'by choice' does not have a single direct equivalent in Japanese. The appropriate expression depends on whether you mean 'voluntarily', 'deliberately', or 'by preference'.
She participated in the volunteer work by choice.
Casual. Implies doing something because one likes it, often used when explaining a seemingly undesirable choice.
好きでこんな仕事をしているわけじゃない。
I'm not doing this job by choice.
彼はわざと私を無視した。
He ignored me by choice.
Formal, often used in legal or serious contexts. Implies malicious intent.
彼は故意に規則を破った。
He broke the rule by choice.
彼は好んで和食を食べる。
He eats Japanese food by choice.
Literally 'by one's own choice'. Direct and clear.
自分の選択でこの大学に来た。
I came to this university by choice.