Translation guide
The English word "perennial" has two main uses: describing plants that live for many years, and describing something that is lasting or recurring. This guide covers both meanings with natural Japanese equivalents.
Describing a plant that lives for more than two years, as opposed to annuals or biennials.
Standard botanical term meaning 'perennial'. Often used in compounds like 多年生植物 (perennial plant).
Describing something that exists for a long time, is permanent, or happens repeatedly.
a perennial problem · perennial popularity · a perennial favorite
Means 'eternal' or 'everlasting'. Used for abstract concepts like love, truth, or problems that never go away.
それは永遠の課題だ。
That's a perennial problem.
English 'perennial' is often used figuratively (e.g., 'perennial favorite'), but direct translations like 多年生の are only for plants. Use context-appropriate words like 永遠の, 長年の, or 繰り返される for abstract meanings.
Both mean perennial plant, but 多年草 is the general term, while 宿根草 specifically refers to herbaceous perennials that die back in winter and regrow from roots. In everyday gardening, 多年草 is more common.
この花は多年生です。
This flower is a perennial.
Specifically refers to perennial herbaceous plants (as opposed to woody plants). Very common in gardening contexts.
多年草は毎年花を咲かせます。
Perennials bloom every year.
Refers to perennial plants that die back to the ground in winter and regrow from roots. Common in horticulture.
宿根草は冬に地上部が枯れます。
Perennials die back above ground in winter.
Means 'long-standing' or 'of many years'. Suitable for issues, habits, or traditions that have persisted over time.
長年の懸案がようやく解決した。
The perennial issue was finally resolved.
Means 'constant' or 'perpetual'. Often used in formal or technical contexts for ongoing conditions.
恒常的な人手不足が問題だ。
A perennial labor shortage is a problem.
Means 'repeated' or 'recurring'. Emphasizes the cyclical nature of something, like a perennial debate or event.
その議論は毎年繰り返される。
That debate is a perennial one.
Means 'immortal' or 'everlasting'. Used for works of art, fame, or achievements that stand the test of time.
彼の作品は不朽の名作だ。
His works are perennial masterpieces.