Translation guide
In baseball, the first base that a runner must touch. Also used metaphorically for the first stage of a process or relationship.
The first base in baseball, or the act of reaching it.
Standard term for first base in baseball.
彼は一塁に滑り込んだ。
He slid into first base.
Loanword from English, commonly used in Japanese baseball contexts.
彼はファーストベースを守っている。
He is playing first base.
The first stage of a process, especially in romantic relationships (e.g., kissing).
General term for 'first stage' or 'first step' in any process.
計画の第一段階は完了した。
The first stage of the plan is complete.
Another way to say 'first stage', slightly more casual.
これはまだ最初の段階です。
This is still the first stage.
The 'base' metaphor for physical intimacy is not directly translated. Instead, describe the action or use terms like キス (kiss) for first base.
Avoid literal translation of 'first base' in romantic contexts; it may not be understood.
彼女とキスした。
I kissed her (reached first base).
The baseball metaphor for physical intimacy is not common in Japanese. Instead, describe the action directly (e.g., キスする for kissing).