Translation guide
The abbreviation 'etc.' is used in English to indicate that a list continues with similar items. In Japanese, there are several ways to express this, depending on formality, medium, and whether the list is of nouns, actions, or states. The most common equivalent is など (nado), but other expressions like とか (toka) and 等 (tou) are also used.
The speaker wants to say that there are other similar items in a list without naming them all.
The most common and neutral way to say 'etc.' or 'and so on' after a list of nouns. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
There are books, pens, etc. on the desk.
A more casual and colloquial alternative to など. Often used in spoken Japanese, and can be repeated after each item for emphasis.
Yesterday I went to a movie, shopping, etc.
A formal, written form of 'etc.' Often used in official documents or academic writing. Can also be read as など in some contexts, but とう is the on'yomi reading used in formal compounds.
Please fill in your name, address, etc. on this form.
The speaker wants to imply that there are other similar actions or states without listing them.
The 〜たり form of verbs is used to list representative actions or states, often implying 'and so on'. Adding など after たり makes the 'etc.' meaning explicit, but it is often omitted.
On weekends I read books, watch movies, etc.
On my days off I sleep and do things like that.
とか can also be used after verbs and adjectives in casual speech to mean 'and things like that'.
など is neutral and can be used in both speech and writing. とか is more casual and conversational. In formal writing, など or 等 are preferred.
As for fruit, I like apples, oranges, etc.
As for fruit, I like apples, oranges, etc. (casual)
When listing people, using など can sound dismissive or rude, as if you are treating them as mere examples. It's safer to use たち (for groups) or rephrase.
I went to eat with Tanaka and others.
When I'm free I play games, listen to music, etc.