Translation guide
A final demand or statement of terms, the rejection of which will result in retaliation or a breakdown in relations.
To express a final set of conditions or demands, with an implied threat if not met.
To describe the act of giving an ultimatum.
The most common verb phrase for 'to issue an ultimatum'. 突きつける means to thrust or present forcefully.
彼女は彼に最後通牒を突きつけた。
She gave him an ultimatum.
To express a 'me or something else' choice in personal relationships.
While 最後通牒 is the direct translation, it sounds overly formal or dramatic in everyday conversation. For personal ultimatums, use the patterns under 'Ultimatum in relationships' or rephrase as a conditional statement.
タバコやめないなら、出て行くよ。
If you don't quit smoking, I'm leaving. (This functions as an ultimatum without using the word.)
The standard translation for 'ultimatum' in formal or serious contexts, such as diplomacy, business, or personal confrontations.
彼は会社に最後通牒を突きつけた。
He gave the company an ultimatum.
Literally 'final notice', used in similar contexts to 最後通牒 but slightly less formal. Common in business or legal settings.
取引先から最終通告を受けた。
We received an ultimatum from our business partner.
A more colloquial way to say 'final notice', often used in everyday situations like giving someone a last chance.
これが最後の通告だ。
This is your final warning.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'a demand that gives no leeway', used when explaining the concept rather than in direct speech.
それは猶予を与えない要求だった。
It was an ultimatum.
A slightly less forceful way to say 'issue an ultimatum', using する (to do).
上司が最終通告をした。
The boss issued an ultimatum.
Literally 'to put out a final notice', used in contexts like sending a written ultimatum.
会社は組合に最後通告を出した。
The company issued an ultimatum to the union.
An indirect way to pose an ultimatum: 'Which will you choose?' Often implies a final decision.
私とあの人、どっちを取るの？
It's me or him/her. Which will you choose?
In casual relationships, an ultimatum is often expressed as a conditional threat: 'If you ~, I'll ~'. This avoids the formal word 最後通牒.
浮気したら別れるからね。
If you cheat on me, I'll break up with you. (implying an ultimatum)