Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'long distance' depends on whether you're talking about physical distance, relationships, or communication. The most common word is 長距離 (chōkyori), but other expressions are used for long-distance relationships, calls, and travel.
Describing a great physical distance between places or objects.
The standard term for 'long distance', used in contexts like travel, transportation, and sports.
長距離バスで旅行する。
I travel by long-distance bus.
彼は長距離走が得意だ。
He is good at long-distance running.
Literally 'far distance', often used in compound terms like 遠距離恋愛 (long-distance relationship). Less common as a standalone word.
遠距離恋愛は大変だ。
A long-distance relationship is tough.
An adverb meaning 'far away'. Used to describe something being at a long distance.
彼は遠くに住んでいる。
He lives far away.
Referring to a romantic relationship where partners live far apart.
The standard term for a long-distance romantic relationship. Often abbreviated as 遠恋 (enren) in casual speech.
私たちは遠距離恋愛をしている。
We are in a long-distance relationship.
Abbreviation of 遠距離恋愛, used in casual conversation.
遠恋は難しいよね。
Long-distance relationships are hard, right?
Describing phone calls or communication over a long distance.
Refers to a long-distance telephone call. Note that with modern mobile plans, this term is becoming less common domestically but is still used for international calls.
長距離電話をかける。
I make a long-distance call.
Describing travel over a long distance, such as by train or plane.
Means 'long-distance travel/movement'. Used for trips covering a great distance.
長距離移動で疲れた。
I'm tired from the long-distance travel.
Literally 'long journey', a more casual and common way to refer to a long trip.
長旅お疲れさま。
Thanks for your hard work on the long journey.
長距離 (chōkyori) is the general term for 'long distance' in physical and technical contexts. 遠距離 (enkyori) is less common alone and is mainly used in compounds like 遠距離恋愛 (long-distance relationship). Using 遠距離 by itself may sound slightly literary or formal.
Avoid saying '長距離の関係' for 'long-distance relationship'. The natural term is 遠距離恋愛 or simply 遠恋.
Specifically an international call. Use this when the long distance is between countries.
国際電話は高い。
International calls are expensive.