Translation guide
The English word 'transition' covers a wide range of changes, from personal life shifts to grammatical connectors. This guide organizes the most useful Japanese expressions by the type of transition you want to express.
Expressing a process of change, often gradual, from one condition, stage, or situation to another.
A general noun/verb for shifting or moving from one system, state, or phase to another. Often used in formal or technical contexts.
The transition to the new system will begin next month.
Implies a major shift or conversion, often in policy, direction, or thinking. Stronger than 移行.
A major policy transition is necessary.
Refers to historical changes or evolution over time. Often used in academic or literary writing.
I'm researching the transition of word meanings over time.
Describing a personal change in status, career, or life phase.
A turning point in life or career. Often used with 〜となる or 〜を迎える.
Studying abroad was a turning point (transition) in my life.
Describes gradual change, like seasons or eras. Can be used for life stages but less personal than 転機.
Using transition words or phrases to link sentences or paragraphs smoothly.
A common conversational transition meaning 'by the way' or 'incidentally', used to change the subject.
By the way, what time is tomorrow's meeting?
Used to signal a transition to a new topic or to get down to business. Common in speeches and writing.
Means 'on the other hand' or 'meanwhile', used to contrast or add another perspective.
A formal transition meaning 'well then' or 'in that case', used to move to the next point or conclude.
Describing a change in location, posture, or physical state.
Often used for gradual changes in numbers, trends, or conditions. Can describe physical transitions in technical contexts.
The population transition is shown in the graph.
移行 (ikou) is the most general for a shift from one state to another, often planned. 転換 (tenkan) implies a more dramatic conversion or reversal. 変遷 (hensen) is for historical evolution over long periods.
English 'transition' is often used as a verb ('to transition'). Japanese does not have a single verb equivalent. Use phrases like 〜に移行する, 〜に変わる, or 〜へと移り変わる depending on the nuance.
I feel the transition of the seasons.
Now, let's get to the main topic.
He is excellent. On the other hand, he lacks cooperativeness.
それでは、次の議題に移ります。
Well then, let's move on to the next agenda item.