Translation guide
How to express 'pace' in Japanese, covering speed, steps, rhythm, and related expressions.
The speed at which someone or something moves or progresses.
The most common and versatile loanword for 'pace', used for speed in walking, running, working, etc.
Please run at your own pace.
The pace of work is too fast.
Means 'speed' or 'velocity'. More formal and technical than ペース.
Please reduce the speed of the car.
Another loanword for 'speed', often used for physical speed or quickness.
Pick up the pace!
One step taken while moving on foot.
The steady rhythm or tempo of an activity, music, or life.
To walk back and forth in a small area, often due to nervousness or impatience.
Means 'to go back and forth'. The most natural way to express pacing in a room.
He was pacing back and forth in the room.
Means 'to wander around' or 'to pace about' restlessly. Slightly more casual.
Don't pace around in the waiting room.
To establish a speed or standard for others to follow.
To stay at the same speed or level as someone or something.
Means 'to catch up with' or 'to keep pace with'. Used when trying to match a faster pace.
I can't keep pace with his running.
Literally 'to follow without falling behind'. Emphasizes not lagging.
ペース is the most common for 'pace' in everyday contexts (work, walking, life). 速度 is more formal and technical, often used for vehicles or physics. スピード emphasizes quickness and is often used in sports or when urging someone to go faster.
When 'pace' means speed or rhythm, using 歩幅 or 一歩 would be incorrect. Use ペース or テンポ instead.
Take three paces back.
Regulate the pace of life.
Means 'to take the lead'. Can imply setting the pace in a race or project.
She set the pace and advanced the project.
Keep pace with the progress of the class.