Translation guide
Expresses the first year of something, such as a student's year in school, an employee's year at a company, or the initial year of an event or period.
To refer to a student in their first year at an educational institution.
Standard term for a first-year student at any school level. Can be used for elementary, middle, high school, or university students.
I am a first-year university student.
In my first year, I was bad at math.
Specifically refers to a newly entered student, often used at the beginning of the school year. Emphasizes the 'new student' aspect rather than just the year.
There is a welcome party for new students.
To refer to an employee in their first year of work.
Means 'first year' in terms of counting years of experience. Commonly used with 社員 (employee) or 会社 (company).
He is in his first year at the company.
First-year employees have training.
Refers to a newcomer or rookie, often used for first-year employees. More general than just 'first year' and can apply to any new member.
To indicate the initial year of something like a project, reign, or calendar period.
A general pattern meaning 'the first year of ~'. Replace 〜 with the event or period.
The first year of Heisei is 1989.
The first year of the project was spent on preparation.
Specifically used for the first year of an imperial era (e.g., 令和元年). Not used for general 'first year'.
To describe the initial year in a series, such as a course, plan, or contract.
一年生 (いちねんせい) is specifically for students in their first year of school. 一年目 (いちねんめ) is a counter for years and can be used for any first year of an activity or employment. Do not use 一年生 for a company employee; use 一年目 instead.
He is a first-year student.
He is in his first year (at the company).
Do not translate 'first year student' as 最初の年の学生 (さいしょのとしのがくせい). It is unnatural. Use 一年生 or 新入生 depending on context.
新人研修が始まります。
New employee training will begin.
令和元年は2019年です。
The first year of Reiwa is 2019.
The budget for the first year is limited.