Translation guide
The English word "convenience" is often expressed in Japanese through adjectives like 便利 (benri) for describing usefulness and ease, or nouns like 都合 (tsugō) for personal circumstances. Direct translation is not always natural; the concept is frequently embedded in set phrases or implied by context.
Describing something that saves time or effort, is handy, or makes life easier.
The most common and versatile word for 'convenient'. Used for tools, locations, services, etc.
このアプリはとても便利です。
This app is very convenient.
駅の近くに住んでいて便利だ。
It's convenient living near the station.
Means 'to find something handy/useful' and often implies personal appreciation. Slightly more formal than 便利.
この辞書は重宝している。
I find this dictionary very handy.
Means 'convenient' in the sense of favorable circumstances. Often used in formal or written contexts.
それは好都合な申し出だ。
That's a convenient offer.
Referring to whether something fits one's schedule, situation, or personal convenience.
A noun meaning 'convenience' in terms of one's circumstances or schedule. Often used in phrases like 都合がいい/悪い.
明日は都合が悪いです。
Tomorrow is inconvenient for me.
ご都合のよろしい日をお知らせください。
Please let me know a day that is convenient for you.
Literally 'condition is good', used informally to mean something is convenient or works out well.
今日は具合がいいから、買い物に行ける。
Today is convenient, so I can go shopping.
The negative form meaning 'inconvenience' or 'trouble'. Often used in formal apologies.
Referring to things that make modern life comfortable, like appliances or infrastructure.
Literally 'convenient things', a natural way to refer to modern conveniences.
現代の生活は便利なものであふれている。
Modern life is full of conveniences.
Means 'facilities' or 'equipment', often used for building amenities.
このマンションは設備が整っている。
This apartment has good facilities (conveniences).
Referring to the specific type of shop.
Abbreviation of コンビニエンスストア. The standard term.
コンビニでおにぎりを買った。
I bought a rice ball at the convenience store.
English often uses 'convenience' as a noun (e.g., 'for your convenience'), but Japanese prefers adjectives like 便利な or specific phrases. Saying あなたの便利のために is unnatural.
便利 is for objective usefulness (tools, places). 都合 is for subjective circumstances (schedule, personal situation). Mixing them up can sound odd.
オンラインショッピングの便利さが好きです。
I like the convenience of online shopping.
ご都合のよろしい時にお電話ください。
Please call me at your convenience.
We apologize for any inconvenience caused.
The full term, rarely used in casual speech.
コンビニエンスストアは24時間営業です。
Convenience stores are open 24 hours.