Translation guide
Refers to the latter part of a time period, event, game, or sequence. Japanese uses different expressions depending on what is being divided.
To refer to the second half of a calendar period or a defined time span.
The most common and versatile way to say 'second half' for any period. Attach to a time word.
今年の後半は忙しくなりそうだ。
The second half of this year is going to be busy.
月の後半には給料が入る。
My salary comes in during the second half of the month.
Specifically for the second half of a fiscal or business year.
下半期の売上目標を達成した。
We achieved our sales target for the second half of the fiscal year.
To refer to the latter period of a sports game or contest.
Used for the second half of a sports match, just like for time periods.
後半に逆転した。
They turned the game around in the second half.
サッカーの試合は後半が始まった。
The second half of the soccer match has started.
To refer to the second half of a narrative, performance, or scheduled event.
Works for any sequential event, such as a movie, concert, or ceremony.
映画の後半は涙が止まらなかった。
I couldn't stop crying during the second half of the movie.
式の後半でスピーチがあります。
There will be speeches in the second half of the ceremony.
Used for the second part of a two-part series, such as a TV episode or published work.
To refer to the latter stage of a lifespan or professional period.
Specifically the second half of one's life.
彼は後半生を田舎で過ごした。
He spent the second half of his life in the countryside.
Can be used with 人生 or キャリア to mean the latter half.
Do not use 第二半分 or similar. The natural word is 後半.
第二半分
second half (incorrect)
このドラマの後編は来週放送です。
The second part of this drama will be broadcast next week.
人生の後半をどう生きるか考えている。
I'm thinking about how to live the second half of my life.