Translation guide
In Japanese, referring to neighbors depends on context: nearby residents, adjacent houses, or neighboring countries. The most common word is 隣人 (りんじん) for people, but 近所 (きんじょ) is used for the neighborhood area. For immediate next-door neighbors, 隣 (となり) is natural. Pronouns are often omitted when the referent is clear.
Referring to neighbors as people in the neighborhood or community.
General term for a neighbor as a person. Slightly formal; used in writing or polite speech.
I get along well with my neighbors.
Literally 'person of the neighborhood'. Very common in casual conversation.
I greet my neighbors when I see them.
Friendly, polite way to refer to neighbors. Often used when speaking to or about neighbors with warmth.
I received some homemade food from a neighbor.
Specifically the person living next door. More immediate than 近所の人.
I'm having trouble with my next-door neighbor being noisy.
Referring to the physical neighboring dwelling or building.
Referring to nations or areas that share a border.
Neighboring country. Formal, used in news or geopolitical contexts.
Referring to the local area or community, not specific people.
The neighborhood, vicinity. Used for the area around one's home.
My neighbors are very friendly.
The house next door is vacant.
Polite form of 隣, often used for the neighboring house or family.
I can hear noises from next door.
Japan and Korea are neighboring countries.
Neighboring countries (plural). Used in diplomatic or economic contexts.
Strengthen relations with neighboring countries.
This neighborhood is quiet and easy to live in.
Polite form of 近所, often used when speaking about one's own neighborhood to others.
A new cafe opened in my neighborhood.
chat with a neighbor (casual)
When the neighbor is clear from context, Japanese often omits the subject. Saying '私の隣人' (my neighbor) every time sounds unnatural. Use 隣の人 or just 隣 when the relationship is obvious.
We invited the neighbors over for dinner.