Translation guide
The period of time that a person or thing exists or functions. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 一生 (isshō), but other words like 生涯 (shōgai) and 寿命 (jumyō) are used depending on context, such as career, lifespan of objects, or once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Referring to the whole duration of a person's life, from birth to death.
The length of time a living thing or product is expected to live or function.
Refers to the natural lifespan of living things, or the useful life of products, machines, etc.
Emphasizing that something happens only once in a person's life.
Literally 'once in a lifetime'. Very common phrase.
Referring to accomplishments or efforts spanning one's entire career or life.
Common phrase for 'lifetime's work' or 'life's work'.
Expressing that something will continue until death.
Pattern: 一生 + verb. Means 'do something for one's whole life'.
一生 (isshō) is the most general and common for a person's entire life. 生涯 (shōgai) is often used for career or public life, and can sound more formal or literary. 寿命 (jumyō) specifically refers to lifespan length, for both living things and objects.
寿命 means 'lifespan' and cannot be used in phrases like 'once-in-a-lifetime chance'. Use 一生に一度 instead.
He spent his lifetime helping others.
It's a memory I'll never forget in my lifetime.
彼は生涯を教育に捧げた。
He devoted his lifetime to education.
The average lifetime of this dog is 12 years.
The lifetime of this battery is about 5 years.
Can also be used for animals, especially pets, but 寿命 is more precise for lifespan length.
A cat's lifetime is surprisingly short.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance.
More dramatic, often used for performances or grand gestures. 'Once in a generation' nuance.
The performance of a lifetime.
This is my lifetime's work.
More formal, used for lifetime achievements or accomplishments.
He received an award for his lifetime achievements.
He intends to stay single for his lifetime.
Literally 'until death', more casual and direct.
I want to live here for the rest of my lifetime.
The lifetime of this light bulb is 10,000 hours.