Translation guide
Describes a place, seat, or position that is empty, vacant, or not currently in use. Japanese expressions vary depending on whether you're talking about a room, a seat, a toilet, a job position, or a state of being free.
Describing a seat, room, or physical space that is empty and available for use.
The most common and natural way to say a seat, room, or space is vacant/available. Uses the verb 空く (あく) in its -te iru form to describe the state.
Is this seat taken?
Do you have any vacant rooms?
A noun meaning vacancy or empty space. Often used in compounds like 空き部屋 (vacant room) or 空き席 (vacant seat).
I'm looking for a vacant room.
Indicating that a toilet stall or bathroom is vacant.
Describing a job opening or unfilled position.
Describing a person who is not occupied with tasks and has free time.
Idiom meaning 'hands are free', i.e., not busy. Very natural for saying you're available to help.
Are you free right now?
Means free time or not busy. Can sound like you have nothing to do, so use carefully.
Can imply 'I have nothing to do' which might be seen as lazy. 手が空いている is safer for offering help.
Describing a house, building, or area with no people living there.
欠員が出たので、募集します。
A vacancy has opened up, so we are hiring.
Are you free today?
The number of vacant houses is increasing.