Translation guide
Expresses that something has continued or been passed down over multiple generations, or will continue into the future. Japanese uses various adverbial phrases and set expressions depending on the nuance.
Describing a tradition, practice, or state that has been passed down or continued from ancestors over many years.
Most common and neutral way to say 'for generations', often used for family businesses, traditions, or inherited roles.
この店は代々続いている。
This shop has been running for generations.
代々受け継がれてきた技術
a skill passed down for generations
Literally 'spanning many generations', emphasizes the length of time and number of generations.
この伝統は何世代にもわたって守られてきた。
This tradition has been preserved for generations.
Emphasizes ancestral lineage, often used for inherited land, family heirlooms, or long-standing family customs.
先祖代々の土地を守る。
protect the land that has been in the family for generations
Means 'since old times' or 'for a long time', often implying multiple generations without explicitly stating it. More casual.
この村では昔からこの祭りをやっている。
This village has held this festival for generations.
Expressing that something will continue or be passed on to children, grandchildren, and beyond.
Natural way to say 'for generations to come' or 'forever into the future'.
この美しい自然をこれから先もずっと残していきたい。
We want to preserve this beautiful nature for generations to come.
Literally 'to future generations', often used in formal or environmental contexts.
未来の世代に平和な世界を残す責任がある。
We have a responsibility to leave a peaceful world for future generations.
Describing a family or group where multiple generations coexist or participate together.
Used when three generations (grandparents, parents, children) are involved. Can be adapted to other numbers.
三世代にわたって同居している家族が多い。
Many families live together with three generations under one roof.
Simply 'many generations', can be used for living generations or historical continuity.
この写真には何世代もの家族が写っている。
This photo shows family members from several generations.
代々 is the most common and versatile. 先祖代々 specifically emphasizes ancestry and is often used for inherited property or deeply rooted family traditions.
The English phrase 'for generations' does not have a single direct equivalent. Translating word-for-word as 世代のために or similar is incorrect. Choose the expression that matches the intended nuance.
Formal, literary expression meaning 'for generations to come' or 'children and grandchildren'. Often used in speeches or solemn declarations.
この教訓を子々孫々に伝えなければならない。
We must pass this lesson down to future generations.