Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a deadline is commonly expressed with specific nouns and verbs. The most natural translations depend on whether you are referring to the deadline itself, the act of meeting it, or the final date for something.
Referring to the deadline as a point in time by which something must be done.
The most common and general word for 'deadline'. Used for submission dates, application deadlines, etc.
The deadline for the report is tomorrow.
I missed the deadline.
Refers to a fixed time limit or term, often used in formal or legal contexts. Can also mean 'expiration date'.
The application deadline is the end of this month.
It becomes invalid after the deadline.
Loanword from English, used in business or project management contexts. Less common than 締め切り.
The project deadline is approaching.
Expressing that you will meet or have met a deadline.
Expressing that a deadline was not met.
To not be in time for the deadline.
What if I don't make the deadline?
To pass the deadline. Often used when something is submitted late.
Indicating that a deadline is near.
Establishing or imposing a deadline.
締め切り is the most common word for 'deadline' in everyday contexts like school assignments or submissions. 期限 is broader and can refer to any time limit, including expiration dates or legal deadlines. 期限 is often used in formal documents.
report deadline
expiration date
Avoid literal translations like '死の線' (death line). The word 'deadline' does not carry a morbid connotation in Japanese, and such a translation would be confusing or alarming.
It's important to meet deadlines.
I missed the deadline (it passed).
The deadline is close, so I need to focus.
When should we set the deadline?