Translation guide
Describes something that happens sometimes but not regularly or frequently.
To express that an event or action occurs occasionally, not constantly.
The most common and neutral way to say 'occasionally' or 'sometimes'. Can be used in both spoken and written Japanese.
Describing something that is not regular or permanent, such as an occasional table or an occasional speaker.
Used for temporary or occasional roles, positions, or arrangements. Attaches to nouns.
時々 (tokidoki) is more neutral and can be used in formal contexts. たまに (tamani) is more casual and implies a lower frequency, similar to 'once in a while'. In polite speech, 時々 is safer.
I exercise occasionally. (polite)
時々映画を見に行きます。
I occasionally go to see movies.
Very common in casual speech. Implies less frequency than 時々, closer to 'once in a while'.
I see him occasionally.
Slightly more formal or literary than 時々. Often used in writing.
It rains occasionally.
Literary expression meaning 'whenever the opportunity arises' or 'occasionally'. Not used in everyday conversation.
I occasionally remember my hometown.
We invited an occasional lecturer.
Means 'irregular' or 'occasional', emphasizing lack of fixed schedule.
There are occasional meetings.
I exercise once in a while. (casual)