Translation guide
Expresses that something happens at consistent intervals or in a steady, habitual manner. Japanese uses various adverbs and phrases depending on whether the focus is on frequency, routine, or systematic action.
I go to the dentist regularly.
Literally 'every time', used when something happens each instance of a recurring event.
He regularly shows up late to meetings.
Means 'at regular intervals'. More formal and often used in technical or written contexts.
Please take this medicine at regular intervals.
The action is part of one's regular habits or daily life.
Common word for 'always' or 'regularly' in the sense of habitual action. Very natural in casual speech.
He regularly gets up early in the morning.
Emphasizes that something is done as a matter of course, in one's normal routine.
Literally 'habitually'. More formal and often used in written or analytical contexts.
The action occurs many times, without strict scheduling.
Very common word for 'often' or 'frequently'. Can imply regularity through repetition.
He is regularly late.
Somewhat formal/literary word for 'often' or 'frequently'. Used in writing or formal speech.
Means 'frequently' or 'regularly' with a nuance of high occurrence. Slightly formal.
The action is performed with regularity and without interruption.
Emphasizes orderly, disciplined regularity. Often used for lifestyle habits.
It's important to live regularly.
Loanword from English 'constant'. Implies steady, uninterrupted regularity. Common in business contexts.
Sales are growing regularly.
Means 'steadily' or 'regularly' with a nuance of making solid progress step by step.
He is regularly improving his skills.
In many cases, Japanese expresses regularity through context or verb forms (like 〜ている for habitual actions) rather than a specific adverb. Overusing 定期的に can sound stiff in casual conversation.
定期的に focuses on scheduled intervals (e.g., every month), while いつも implies habitual action without a fixed schedule. Use 定期的に for appointments, payments, etc., and いつも for daily routines.
I try to exercise regularly.
He regularly keeps a diary.
This issue is regularly discussed.
He regularly goes on overseas business trips.