定期的な

§ What 定期的な means

Let's break down 定期的な (teikiteki na). This Japanese adjective directly translates to 'regular' or 'periodic' in English. It's used to describe things that happen at fixed intervals or with a set frequency. Think of anything that follows a schedule, a routine, or a pattern over time. If something is predictable in its occurrence, you can likely use 定期的な to describe it.

Japanese Word

定期的な (teikiteki na)

Meaning

Regular; Periodic

CEFR Level

B1

§ When to use 定期的な

You'll find 定期的な popping up in many contexts where regularity is key. Here are some common scenarios:

• Schedules and Routines: If you have a regular meeting, a periodic check-up, or a routine task, 定期的な is the word to use.
• Maintenance: Machine maintenance, car services, or even house cleaning can be described as 定期的な if done on a schedule.
• Payments and Reports: Things like regular payments, periodic reports, or subscriptions often use this term.
• Natural Occurrences: Even natural events that happen regularly, like tides or seasons, can be described with 定期的な.

It's a versatile word that emphasizes consistency and predictability. It suggests that something isn't a one-off event but rather something that you can expect to happen again and again at a certain rhythm.

§ Examples in context

Hint

We hold regular meetings.

Hint

This machine requires periodic inspections.

Hint

She does regular exercise.

As you can see, 定期的な is used just like 'regular' or 'periodic' in English. It's an adjective that helps specify the frequency or consistency of an action or state. Pay attention to the noun it modifies to fully grasp the meaning in context.

Alright, let's talk about the Japanese word 定期的な (teikiteki na). This word is super useful and you'll hear it a lot in various situations. It basically means 'regular' or 'periodic'. Think of things that happen on a schedule, or with a certain frequency. That's where 定期的な comes in handy. It's a 'na-adjective', which means it'll often be followed by な when it modifies a noun, or just 定期的に (teikiteki ni) when it modifies a verb as an adverb.

§ Basic Meaning of 定期的な

DEFINITION

Regular; periodic. Something that occurs at fixed intervals or according to a set schedule.

§ 定期的な in Work Settings

In a work environment, schedules, reports, and meetings are a big part of daily life. This is where 定期的な pops up all the time. You might hear about 定期的な meetings or reports.

Translation hint: "We have regular progress meetings."

Translation hint: "This data is updated periodically." (Notice the adverbial form here: 定期的に).

Even things like equipment maintenance or performance reviews can be described using this word.

Translation hint: "Regular inspection of the machine is necessary."

§ 定期的な in School Contexts

At school, you'll often encounter 定期的な when talking about exams, health checks, or even club activities.

Translation hint: "Students need to undergo regular health checkups."

Translation hint: "We confirm understanding with regular exams."

Even your homework schedule or practice sessions for sports clubs can be described this way.

§ 定期的な in News and Public Announcements

When you read or watch Japanese news, or hear public announcements, 定期的な is used to describe scheduled events, reports, or services. This is a common way to talk about things that happen on a recurring basis for the public good or information.

Translation hint: "The government will announce regular economic reports."

Translation hint: "Regular route bus service will begin."

It can also refer to environmental surveys, disaster drills, or public maintenance.

• 定期的な清掃 (teikiteki na seisou): regular cleaning

• 定期的な点検 (teikiteki na tenken): regular inspection

• 定期的な支払い (teikiteki na shiharai): regular payment

As you can see, 定期的な is a very versatile word for anything that happens on a schedule or at regular intervals. Keep an ear out for it, and you'll start noticing it everywhere!