Translation guide
The English word 'timely' describes something happening at a suitable or opportune moment. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adjectives, adverbs, and set phrases depending on whether you mean 'well-timed,' 'seasonal,' 'punctual,' or 'up-to-date.'
Describing an action, event, or intervention that occurs exactly when needed or most effective.
A common loanword from English, used in casual and business contexts to mean 'timely' or 'well-timed.' Often used for news, remarks, or actions.
His timely advice led to solving the problem.
A formal expression meaning 'timely' or 'opportune.' Often used in written language or official contexts.
A phrase meaning 'good timing.' More colloquial than タイムリー, used to describe when something happens at the right moment.
His arrival was timely.
Describing something that is seasonal or fitting for a particular time, like seasonal foods or events.
Means 'in season' or 'seasonal,' primarily for foods but also for trends or topics that are currently popular.
Describing something that occurs exactly on time, without delay.
Means 'on time' or 'punctual.' Used for arrivals, departures, or events that happen as scheduled.
Describing information, technology, or trends that are recent and relevant.
Means 'latest' or 'most recent.' Used for news, data, or versions.
Your timely response is appreciated.
In business contexts, 'timely' often translates to 迅速な (prompt) rather than a direct equivalent.
A timely policy was implemented.
A casual, slightly playful loan phrase meaning 'good timing.' Often used as an exclamation.
Good timing! We're just about to start.
Dishes made with seasonal ingredients are delicious.
Literally 'suited to the season,' used for clothing, activities, or decorations that are appropriate for the time of year.
Let's try to wear timely clothing.
A formal, somewhat literary term meaning 'seasonal' or 'timely,' often used in greetings or traditional contexts.
To give a seasonal greeting.
The train arrived in a timely manner.
A formal term meaning 'scheduled' or 'on time,' often used in transportation or official schedules.
We announce the timely departure.
We provide timely information.
Also used for 'timely' in the sense of being current or topical, especially for news or comments.
To cover a timely topic.
a timely remark (formal)
English often uses 'timely' as an adverb (e.g., 'arrive timely'), but this is not standard in Japanese. Use 時間通りに (on time) or タイミング良く (with good timing) instead.
Arrived in a timely manner.
The report was submitted in a timely fashion.
期限通りに means 'by the deadline,' a natural way to express timeliness in formal settings.