本編
Meanings
original story; main story
Refers to the primary narrative, as opposed to sequels, spin-offs, or supplementary material.
The main story of this game can be completed in about 30 hours.
After the main story of the anime ended, a special episode was broadcast.
this volume
Used to refer to the current volume of a multi-volume work, often in prefaces or notes.
In this volume, we will explain Edo period culture in detail.
feature film; main movie
The main film shown in a cinema program, as opposed to trailers or short films.
After the trailers, the main movie finally began.
movie version of a TV series
A theatrical film based on a television series, often continuing or concluding the story.
The movie version of the popular drama will be released next month.
Usage patterns
- 〈事〉は本編に入るto move on to / get into the main story
The preview ended, and now the main feature begins.
- 本編を見るto watch the main story/feature (as opposed to bonus content)
I watched the main feature before the bonus footage.
- 本編に収録されるto be included in the main volume/edition
That episode is not included in the main volume.
- 本編とは別に〈事〉separately from the main story
Separately from the main story, a spin-off volume was published.