Translation guide
In Japanese, 'end of the year' is most commonly expressed as 年末 (ねんまつ). Depending on context, you may also use 年の暮れ (としのくれ) for a more poetic feel, or 年度末 (ねんどまつ) for fiscal/academic year-end.
Referring to the end of the calendar year (December), in general or as a time period.
The standard, neutral word for the end of the calendar year. Used in everyday conversation, news, and business.
I'm always busy at the end of the year.
We do a big cleaning at the end of the year.
A slightly more literary or emotional expression for the year's end, evoking the closing days of the year. Common in greetings and reflective contexts.
I return to my hometown at the year's end.
Literally 'the rapids of the year,' a poetic term for the busy, rushing final days of the year. Often used in set phrases like 年の瀬を迎える.
As the year draws to a close, things feel hectic.
Referring to the end of a fiscal year (often March in Japan) or an academic year.
Specifically the end of a fiscal or academic year. In Japan, this is typically March 31st for many institutions.
The end of the fiscal year is busy with accounting.
End of a term or semester. Often used in academic or business contexts for the end of a specific period.
Referring to specific events, parties, or customs held at the end of the year.
年末 (ねんまつ) refers to the end of the calendar year (December), while 年度末 (ねんどまつ) refers to the end of a fiscal or academic year, which in Japan is often March. Use 年末 for general December contexts, and 年度末 for business or school year-end matters.
Instead of directly translating 'at the end of the year,' use 年末に (ねんまつに) or 年の暮れに (としのくれに). For 'by the end of the year,' use 年末までに (ねんまつまでに).
I have to finish this report by the end of the year.
The end of the year is a time for reflection.
There is a graduation ceremony at the end of the academic year.
The end-of-term exams are next week.
The year-end and New Year period as a whole. Often used when talking about holidays or travel plans.
I'm going on an overseas trip during the year-end and New Year holidays.