Translation and Meaning of: 時折 - tokiori

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 時折[ときおり]. It appears in conversations, texts, and even in songs, but its meaning is not always obvious to beginners. In this article, we will explore what this expression represents, how it is used in everyday Japanese, and what its cultural particularities are. Furthermore, we will see tips to memorize it and understand its context more naturally.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, you will find detailed explanations about terms like 時折, but here we go beyond simple translation. Discover why this word is so interesting and how it fits into everyday communication in Japan. Whether to enrich your vocabulary or satisfy your linguistic curiosity, this guide will help you understand ときおり in a practical and relevant way.

Meaning and usage of 時折

時折 [ときおり] is an adverb that means "occasionally," "from time to time," or "sometimes." Unlike words like 時々 [ときどき], which also indicate frequency, 時折 carries a more poetic tone and is less commonplace. It is often used in contexts where there is a reflective pause or a more delicate observation about the passage of time.

A classic example of use is in descriptions of natural phenomena or events that do not follow a fixed routine. Phrases like "時折、鳥の声が聞こえる" (Occasionally, one can hear the song of the birds) convey a sense of surprise and fleeting beauty. This nuance makes the word less common in informal conversations and more present in literature, speeches, and contemplative observations.

Origin and composition of the term

The word 時折 is composed of two kanji: 時 (time) and 折 (fold, specific moment). Together, they create the idea of "moments that fold in time," meaning occasions that arise intermittently. This construction reflects well the meaning of the word, as it describes events that are not constant but appear at undefined intervals.

It is worth noting that 折 by itself can mean "occasion" or "time," but it also carries the notion of something that breaks or is interrupted. This duality emphasizes the idea that 時折 is not about a regular repetition, but about something that happens in brief pauses in the flow of time. The etymology, therefore, helps to understand why the word has a more literary and less casual usage.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to remember 時折 is to associate it with situations that happen unexpectedly but repeatedly. Think of things like the visit of a distant friend, the appearance of a rainbow, or even that cup of coffee you have only on special days. These images help internalize the concept behind the word.

Another tip is to pay attention to the context in which 時折 appears in Japanese songs, poems, or dramas. Often, it emerges in scenes that depict nostalgia or small pleasures of life. By noticing these patterns, it becomes easier to understand when and how to use it. Remember: although it is not a rare word, its softer tone makes it more suitable for certain situations than for casual conversations.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

時々 (tokidoki) - Sometimes; from time to time; emphasizes that something happens with some frequency.
ときおり (tokiori) - Occasionally; used to describe events that occur from time to time.
たまに (tamani) - Sometimes; used to indicate that something happens rarely, less frequently than "tokidoki".
まれに (mareni) - Rarely; indicates that something happens very little, less frequently than "tamani".