Dates in Japanese Grammar


Understanding Japanese Grammar with Dates


Japanese grammar can be quite challenging for beginners, but with proper guidance, it becomes manageable. One of the essential aspects of mastering Japanese grammar is learning how to express and understand dates. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deep into the world of dates in Japanese grammar, exploring various formats, examples, and tips to help you grasp this vital skill with confidence.

Guide to improved language learning with grammar theory

The most efficient way to learn a language

Try Talkpal for free

Japanese Calendar Systems

Before diving into the mechanics of dates in Japanese grammar, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the calendar systems used in Japan. There are two primary calendar systems to consider:

Expressing Dates in Japanese Grammar

In Japanese grammar, dates are usually formatted as year-month-day. Let’s examine each of these components more closely:

  1. Year: For the Gregorian calendar, years are expressed using Arabic numerals followed by the word “nen” (年), which means “year.” For example, the year 2021 would be written as “2021年”. In the Japanese era calendar, the current era name precedes the year number. Hence, the year 2021 in Reiwa would be written as “令和3年” (Reiwa 3).
  2. Month: Months are expressed using Arabic numerals or traditional Japanese kanji, followed by the word “gatsu” (月), meaning “month.” For example, May would be written as “5月” or “五月”.
  3. Day: Days are expressed using Arabic numerals or Japanese kanji, followed by the word “nichi” (日), meaning “day.” However, some days have unique pronunciations, such as the 1st (tsuitachi, 1日), 2nd (futsuka, 2日), 3rd (mikka, 3日), and so on. Regular day pronunciations resume from the 11th (jūichinichi, 11日) onward.

When combining these components, a date like May 17, 2021, would be expressed as “2021年5月17日” in the Gregorian calendar and “令和3年5月17日” in the Japanese era calendar.

Telling the Date in Japanese Sentences

When incorporating dates into Japanese sentences, don’t forget the essential grammar particle “ni” (に). This particle is crucial as it denotes a specific point in time. For example, a sentence like “I went to Japan on January 5th” would be written as “1月5日に日本に行きました” (ichigatsu itsuka ni Nihon ni ikimashita).

Days of the Week in Japanese

Another crucial aspect of dates in Japanese grammar is expressing days of the week. In Japanese, each day of the week is named after a classical element:

Keep in mind that when describing something happening on a specific day, “ni” (に) particle should also be used.

Conclusion

Mastery of dates in Japanese grammar is an indispensable skill for anyone looking to communicate effectively in the language. By understanding and applying the concepts covered in this guide, you’ll quickly become proficient in expressing and comprehending dates, making your journey to fluency smoother and more enjoyable.

LEARN LANGUAGES FASTER
WITH AI

Learn 5x Faster

Download talkpal app
Learn anywhere anytime

Talkpal is an AI-powered language tutor. It’s the most efficient way to learn a language. Chat about an unlimited amount of interesting topics either by writing or speaking while receiving messages with realistic voice.

QR Code
App Store Google Play
Get in touch with us

Talkpal is a GPT-powered AI language teacher. Boost your speaking, listening, writing, and pronunciation skills – Learn 5x Faster!

Instagram TikTok Youtube Facebook LinkedIn X(twitter)

Languages

Learning


Talkpal, Inc., 2810 N Church St, Wilmington, Delaware 19802, US

© 2025 All Rights Reserved.