Translation guide
How to express that something happens frequently, is widely done, or is generally true in Japanese.
I often go there.
This is commonly known.
Expressing that an action or event occurs often or habitually.
The most common and versatile adverb for 'often' or 'frequently'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
I often watch movies.
He is often late.
A slightly more formal or literary way to say 'often'. Common in writing and formal speech.
Implies repeated occurrences, sometimes with a nuance of 'time and again'. Slightly formal.
Expressing that something is common, widespread, or generally true among people or in society.
Means 'generally' or 'commonly'. Used to state a widely accepted fact or tendency.
Generally, Japanese people eat rice often.
This word is commonly used.
Means 'normally' or 'usually', implying what is common or standard. Casual to neutral.
I usually go by train.
Means 'widely', often used with verbs like 'used', 'known', 'accepted'.
Can also mean 'commonly' in the sense of 'often seen/heard'. Overlaps with frequency meaning.
Expressing that something is done or held in common by multiple parties.
よく is the most common and neutral way to say 'often'. しばしば is more formal and often used in writing. たびたび implies repeated instances and can carry a nuance of apology or annoyance in some contexts.
He comes often.
It often rains.
Sorry for bothering you again.
一般に means 'generally' in a societal sense, not for personal frequency. For 'I commonly do X', use よく or 普通は.
This issue is often discussed.
たびたびご迷惑をおかけしてすみません。
I'm sorry for causing you trouble so often.
This technology is widely used.
This expression is commonly used.
They are running a business jointly.