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.
This app is very convenient.
It's convenient living near the station.
Means 'to find something handy/useful' and often implies personal appreciation. Slightly more formal than 便利.
I find this dictionary very handy.
Means 'convenient' in the sense of favorable circumstances. Often used in formal or written contexts.
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.
Tomorrow is inconvenient for me.
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.
The negative form meaning 'inconvenience' or 'trouble'. Often used in formal apologies.
Referring to things that make modern life comfortable, like appliances or infrastructure.
Referring to the specific type of shop.
Abbreviation of コンビニエンスストア. The standard term.
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.
I like the convenience of online shopping.
Please call me at your convenience.
Today is convenient, so I can go shopping.
ご不都合をおかけして申し訳ありません。
We apologize for any inconvenience caused.
This apartment has good facilities (conveniences).
The full term, rarely used in casual speech.
Convenience stores are open 24 hours.