ぼつぼつ
Meanings
adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle
Describes a slow, steady progression or change over time. Often used with verbs like 進む, 増える, or 回復する.
The economy is gradually recovering.
I'm starting to understand Japanese little by little.
Indicates that something will happen in the near future, often with a sense of inevitability or natural progression. Common in casual speech.
Shall we get going soon?
He should be coming before long.
adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle
Describes things appearing or existing in a sparse, dotted pattern. Can be used with と (ぼつぼつと) for a more vivid, mimetic effect.
Stars began to appear here and there in the sky.
There are spots scattered on the wall.
Noun usage referring to small, dot-like marks or blemishes on a surface or skin. Often used for skin conditions like pimples or a rash.
I got pimples on my face.
This cloth has dots on it.
Usage patterns
- 〈事〉がぼつぼつ〈動詞〉something gradually [verb]s
Customers have gradually been increasing.
- ぼつぼつ〈動詞〉ましょうlet's [verb] soon (it's about time)
Shall we head home soon?
- 〈場所〉に〈物〉がぼつぼつ〈動詞〉things are scattered here and there in a place
Flowers are blooming here and there in the field.
- 〈場所〉にぼつぼつができるspots/pimples appear on a surface
I got a bunch of pimples on my face.