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.
Process the data sequentially.
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.
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.
Please line up in order.
They sang sequentially (one after another).
Means 'one after another' in rapid succession. Emphasizes the continuous flow rather than a strict order.
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.
Assign sequential numbers.
three sequential days
Means 'a series of' or 'a sequence of'. Often used for a set of related actions or items.
A suffix meaning 'order'. Attach to nouns to indicate the sequence (e.g., alphabetical order, numerical order).
Describing a step-by-step logical process or a chain of reasoning.
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.
Please follow the sequential steps.
Please arrange them in sequential (numerical) order.