Translation guide
The English word "sequential" describes things that follow a logical order or happen one after another. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adjectives, adverbs, and grammatical patterns depending on whether you are describing a series of actions, a logical progression, or a numbered sequence.
Describing actions or events that occur in a sequence, one by one.
An adverb meaning 'in order, one after another'. Commonly used in both spoken and written Japanese for sequential processing or actions.
データを順次処理する。
Process the data sequentially.
応募者を順次面接します。
We will interview applicants in order.
Similar to 順次, but often implies 'step by step' or 'as things progress'. Slightly more formal or technical.
状況を逐次報告してください。
Please report the situation sequentially (as it develops).
Literally 'in turn', this is the most common way to say 'one after another' in everyday conversation.
順番に並んでください。
Please line up in order.
彼らは順番に歌った。
They sang sequentially (one after another).
Means 'one after another' in rapid succession. Emphasizes the continuous flow rather than a strict order.
観客が次々に入場した。
The audience entered sequentially (one after another).
Describing things that are arranged in a specific order, such as numbers, steps, or stages.
An adjective meaning 'consecutive' or 'sequential'. Used for things that follow without interruption.
連続した番号を割り当てる。
Assign sequential numbers.
連続した3日間
three sequential days
Means 'a series of' or 'a sequence of'. Often used for a set of related actions or items.
一連の手順に従ってください。
Please follow the sequential steps.
A suffix meaning 'order'. Attach to nouns to indicate the sequence (e.g., alphabetical order, numerical order).
番号順に並べてください。
Please arrange them in sequential (numerical) order.
Describing a step-by-step logical process or a chain of reasoning.
An adjective meaning 'step-by-step' or 'gradual'. Used for processes that occur in stages.
問題を段階的に解決する。
Solve the problem sequentially (step by step).
Literally 'following the order', this phrase is used when explaining something in a logical sequence.
順を追って説明します。
I will explain it sequentially.
Both mean 'sequentially', but 順次 is more common and neutral, while 逐次 implies a more detailed, step-by-step progression and is often used in technical or formal contexts.
The English word 'sequential' is often used in technical contexts (e.g., sequential access). In Japanese, such terms are usually translated with specific compound words like シーケンシャルアクセス (sequential access) or 逐次処理 (sequential processing). Do not force a single Japanese word for all uses.