Translation guide
The English word 'interval' can refer to a gap in time, a gap in space, or a specific recurring period. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on the intended meaning.
To express a period of time separating two events or actions.
The most common and versatile word for a time interval. Can be used for both short and long gaps.
電車と電車の間が長い。
The interval between trains is long.
その間に昼食を食べた。
I ate lunch during that interval.
More formal and precise than 間. Often used for scheduled or measured intervals.
バスは15分間隔で運行しています。
Buses run at 15-minute intervals.
Refers to a short interval or break between activities, often implying a moment of free time.
仕事の合間にコーヒーを飲む。
I drink coffee during intervals at work.
To express a physical distance or space separating things.
Used for spatial intervals, such as distance between objects. Can also be used for time.
木と木の間隔が狭すぎる。
The interval between the trees is too narrow.
Also used for physical space, but less precise than 間隔. Often implies a gap or space between two things.
To express a regular interval at which something repeats.
Attach to a time period to mean 'every ~' or 'at intervals of ~'. Note: 1日おきに means every other day, not every day.
この薬は8時間おきに飲んでください。
Please take this medicine at 8-hour intervals.
1日おきにジムに行く。
I go to the gym at intervals of one day (every other day).
Also means 'every ~', but emphasizes each individual occurrence rather than the gap. Often interchangeable with おきに, but ごとに includes the starting point.
3時間ごとに点検する。
Inspect at 3-hour intervals.
To refer to a pause in a show, concert, or event.
General word for a break or rest period, including intermissions.
コンサートの途中で15分の休憩があります。
There is a 15-minute interval during the concert.
Specifically refers to the interval between acts in a play or performance. More theatrical.
To express the difference in pitch between two notes.
間 (あいだ) is the everyday word for a gap in time or space. 間隔 (かんかく) is more formal and precise, often used in schedules, measurements, or written contexts. Use 間 for casual conversation, 間隔 for technical or official descriptions.
Both mean 'every ~', but おきに focuses on the interval between events, while ごとに counts each occurrence. For example, 1日おきに means every other day (skip a day), but 1日ごとに means every day. Be careful with time expressions.
彼が返事をするまでに長い間があった。
There was a long interval before he replied.
木が一定の間隔で植えられた。
The trees were planted at regular intervals.
The interval between houses is narrow.
幕間にロビーでお待ちください。
Please wait in the lobby during the interval.