Translation guide
The English word "sequence" can refer to an ordered series, a logical or causal chain, or a specific order of steps. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Expressing a series of things or events that follow one another in a particular order.
Most common word for 'order' or 'sequence' in everyday contexts. Often used with に or で.
Please call the names in sequence.
The sequence is backwards.
Slightly more formal than 順番, often used for logical or procedural order.
Please don't get the sequence of steps wrong.
Emphasizes continuity or succession, often used for events happening one after another.
Accidents occurred in sequence.
Loanword used mainly in technical or musical contexts (e.g., DNA sequence, MIDI sequence).
Analyze the DNA sequence.
Describing a sequence of events that are connected, often causally or procedurally.
Means 'a series' or 'a sequence' of related events or actions. Often used with の + noun.
We are investigating the truth behind the sequence of incidents.
Literally 'flow', used to describe a natural sequence or progression of events.
Refers to a process or sequence of stages, often in a formal or analytical context.
Referring to a prescribed or correct order, such as in instructions or rankings.
Suffix meaning 'order'. Attach to nouns to indicate sequence (e.g., 到着順 = order of arrival).
The list is arranged in alphabetical sequence.
Adverbial phrase meaning 'in order' or 'in sequence'. Very common and versatile.
Specifically refers to a sequence of steps in a procedure or process.
Referring to a continuous series of scenes, shots, or musical phrases.
順番 is the most colloquial and general for 'order'. 順序 is slightly more formal and often implies a logical or correct order. 順 is a suffix used in compound words like 到着順 (order of arrival).
シーケンス is a technical term and sounds unnatural in everyday conversation. Use 順番 or 一連 instead.
The sequence of events led to the accident.
Please follow the sequence of instructions.
一連の手続きを完了してください。
Please complete the sequence of procedures.
試合の流れが変わった。
The sequence of the game changed.
製造過程を詳しく説明します。
I will explain the manufacturing sequence in detail.
順に説明します。
I will explain in sequence.
Please line up in sequence.
正しい手順を教えてください。
Please tell me the correct sequence of steps.
The opening of that movie is a long sequence.
This sequence is a masterpiece.