Translation guide
The English phrase "this and that" refers to various unspecified things, often used when the details are unimportant or when one wants to be vague. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through several common phrases and patterns that convey a similar sense of miscellaneous or assorted matters.
Referring to a collection of miscellaneous, often trivial, things or topics.
A very common and natural way to say 'this and that' or 'various things'. It can be used as a noun or adverb.
Don't overthink this and that.
I bought this and that (various things).
Means 'various' or 'all sorts of'. Very versatile and can be used in many contexts to mean 'this and that'.
Thanks for this and that (everything).
I have this and that to do over the weekend.
Similar to あれこれ, but slightly more emphatic or colloquial. Often implies a flurry of various activities or items.
I'm busy with this and that.
Means 'one thing or another', 'this and that'. Often used when recounting various happenings or expenses.
It costs money for this and that.
Adverbial form emphasizing a sequence of various things. Slightly more literary or emphatic.
To worry about this and that.
Used when chatting about miscellaneous topics without specifying details.
Both mean 'this and that' or 'various things'. あれこれ is slightly more colloquial and often implies a scattered assortment, while いろいろ is more neutral and can be used in formal contexts. あれこれ is often used with と (あれこれと), while いろいろ can be used with な (いろいろな) to modify nouns.
to worry about this and that
various people
Do not translate 'this and that' literally as これとあれ. While understandable, it sounds unnatural. Use the phrases above instead.
We chatted about this and that.
I have to do this and that today.
We spent time talking about this and that.