Translation and Meaning of: 間々 - mama

The expression 「間々」(mama) has a rich and multifaceted origin in the Japanese language. The word is composed of two characters 「間」, which is often associated with the concept of "space" or "interval." When duplicated, as in 「間々」, the word can acquire more complex meanings, including "occasional" or "once in a while." This duplication often emphasizes the continuity or repetition of a state or condition.

In its written form with kanji, 「間」 contains the radical 「門」 which means "gate" and the radical 「日」 which means "sun" or "day". Historically, this character is associated with the idea of something passing through an opening, symbolizing the concept of intervals or interstices. Thus, the structure of the kanji well reflects the aspect of time or space between events, which is an integral part of the meaning of 「間々」.

When used in everyday context, 「間々」 refers to events that happen with some regularity or continuity, albeit in an inconsistent manner. For example, it can describe a habit or event that occurs with considerable frequency, but not daily. The expression is usually used to indicate repeated actions, reinforcing the idea of something that is occasional but predictable at the same time. This nuance is particularly important for conveying the naturalness with which these events occur in daily life.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 時々 (tokidoki) - Sometimes
• ときどき (tokidoki) - Sometimes, at irregular intervals
• たまに (tamani) - Rarely, occasionally
• しばしば (shibashiba) - Frequently, many times
• あいだあいだ (aida aida) - Between intervals
• あいだに (aida ni) - Between (a specific period of time)
• しばし (shibashi) - A short period of time
• しばらく (shibaraku) - For a while, for a considerable time
• しばらくのあいだ (shibaraku no aida) - for a period of time
• しばらくの間 (shibaraku no aida) - For a limited time

間々

Romaji: mama
Kana: まま
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: occasionally; often

Meaning in English: occasionally;frequently

Definition: Keke: for a while. Once for each task or period.

Example Sentences - (間々) mama

See below some example sentences:

間々に休憩を取りましょう。

Mamama ni kyuukei wo torimashou

Let's take regular breaks.

Let's take a coffee break.

• 間々に - adverb that means "every now and then"
• 休憩 - noun meaning "pause", "rest"
• を - Particle indicating the direct object of the sentence
• 取りましょう - verb that means "let's take off," "let's do"