Translation guide
Expresses the idea of something continuing or being passed down through many generations. In Japanese, this is often conveyed through set phrases, adverbs, or descriptive expressions rather than a single word.
To say that something happens or is passed down from one generation to the next, often implying a long tradition or inheritance.
A common adverb meaning 'for generations' or 'from generation to generation'. Used for family businesses, traditions, or inherited roles.
この店は代々続いている。
This shop has been passed down for generations.
代々医者の家系だ。
They come from a long line of doctors.
Literally 'from generation to generation'. More explicit and slightly formal. Often used in speeches or writing.
この伝統は世代から世代へと受け継がれてきた。
This tradition has been handed down from generation to generation.
Emphasizes ancestral lineage, meaning 'for generations of ancestors'. Used for inherited land, family heirlooms, or deep-rooted traditions.
先祖代々の土地を守っている。
They have been protecting the ancestral land for generations.
To emphasize that every generation, one after another, does something or experiences something.
Means 'every generation' or 'each generation'. Used to state a general truth about all generations.
どの世代も同じ問題に直面する。
Every generation faces the same problems.
Means 'with each passing generation' or 'as generations go by'. Often used to describe gradual change or improvement.
世代を重ねるごとに技術は進歩する。
Technology advances with each passing generation.
To stress a very long period spanning many generations, often with a sense of history or legacy.
Means 'over many generations' or 'spanning several generations'. Common in formal contexts.
この城は何世代にもわたって建てられた。
This castle was built over many generations.
Means 'of many generations'. Used as a modifier before nouns.
幾世代もの努力が実を結んだ。
The efforts of many generations bore fruit.
代々 is the standard, concise way to say 'for generations'. 世代から世代へ is more explicit and slightly formal, often used in speeches or written narratives to emphasize the passing from one generation to the next.
代々続く家業
a family business that has continued for generations
世代から世代へと語り継がれる物語
a story passed down from generation to generation
The English phrase 'generation after generation' does not have a direct word-for-word equivalent in Japanese. Avoid translating it as 世代の後の世代, which sounds unnatural. Use the set phrases provided instead.
この伝統は代々受け継がれてきた。
This tradition has been passed down generation after generation.
代々この村に住んでいる。
Generation after generation, they have lived in this village.