Explanation at your level:
Hello! Let's learn the word 終わり (owari). It means 'the end'. Imagine you are playing a game, and the game is finished. That is the 終わり of the game! Or, when school is finished for the day, that is the 終わり of school. It’s the last part of something. You can say 終わり！ (Owari!) when something is finished. For example, after you eat your food, you can say 終わり！. It’s a simple word for when things stop.
Hi there! Today we're looking at 終わり (owari), which means 'the end' or 'finish'. You can use it when talking about the conclusion of activities or periods. For instance, 一日の終わり (ichinichi no owari) means 'the end of the day'. If you finish your homework, you can say 宿題、終わり！ (Shukudai, owari!). It’s a very common word used in daily life to signal that something has concluded. Think of it as the final moment or stage of something.
Let's explore 終わり (owari), a fundamental Japanese noun meaning 'the end' or 'finish'. It’s used to denote the conclusion of events, processes, or time periods. For example, 会議の終わり (kaigi no owari) signifies 'the end of the meeting'. You can also use it in phrases like 終わり次第 (owari shidai), meaning 'as soon as it ends', to indicate something will happen immediately after a conclusion. Understanding 終わり is key to discussing transitions and completions in various contexts, from personal tasks to larger events.
終わり (owari) is a core Japanese noun signifying 'end' or 'finish'. Beyond its literal meaning, it carries nuances of completion and finality. It's frequently used in collocations like 仕事の終わり (shigoto no owari - end of work) or 物語の終わり (monogatari no owari - end of the story). The expression 終わり良ければ全て良し (Owari yokereba subete yoshi) – 'If the end is good, all is good' – highlights its role in evaluating outcomes. Recognizing its usage in both everyday conversation and idiomatic expressions provides a deeper understanding of Japanese perspectives on closure and success.
The Japanese noun 終わり (owari) denotes 'end' or 'finish' and is central to expressing concepts of cessation and conclusion. Its usage extends beyond simple temporal termination to encompass the final state of affairs. Consider the phrase 終わりと始まり (owari to hajimari), 'the end and the beginning', which poetically frames endings as precursors to new phases. In academic or formal contexts, synonyms like 終結 (shūketsu - conclusion) or 終止 (shūshi - cessation) might be preferred, but 終わり remains the most common and versatile term. Its presence in proverbs like 終わり良ければ全て良し demonstrates its cultural significance in valuing successful resolutions.
終わり (owari), derived from the verb 終わる (owaru), represents the concept of 'end' or 'finish' in Japanese. Its etymological roots, potentially linked to silk production or the natural completion of cycles, hint at its deep historical embedding. Beyond its literal application, 終わり functions as a pivot in philosophical and cultural expressions, such as the cyclical view of 終わりと始まり (owari to hajimari). The proverb 終わり良ければ全て良し (owari yokereba subete yoshi) underscores a cultural emphasis on the quality of the conclusion. Understanding the subtle registers and idiomatic uses of 終わり, compared to more formal terms like 終焉 (shūen - demise, often for life) or 終結 (shūketsu - conclusion, often for conflicts), is crucial for nuanced comprehension and sophisticated expression.
30초 단어
- 終わり (owari) is the common Japanese word for 'end' or 'finish'.
- It's a versatile noun used in many contexts, from daily life to formal events.
- Often used with the particle の (no) to specify what is ending (e.g., 仕事の終わり).
- Idioms like '終わり良ければ全て良し' show its cultural significance.
Hey there! Let's dive into the Japanese word 終わり (owari). It's a super useful word that basically means 'the end' or 'finish'. Think about it like the closing credits of a movie, the last page of a book, or when you finally complete a big project you've been working on. It marks the point where something stops or concludes.
We use 終わり in so many different situations! It can be about something as simple as the end of the day (一日の終わり - ichinichi no owari) or as significant as the end of an era. It’s not just about things stopping, but also about reaching a final state or outcome. Sometimes, it can even imply a sense of finality or completion, like when a task is truly done and dusted.
Understanding 終わり helps you grasp when things wrap up, when a period closes, or when a goal is achieved. It’s a fundamental concept in understanding the flow of time and events. So, whether you're talking about the end of a school day or the end of a journey, 終わり is the word you'll want to know!
The word 終わり (owari) comes from the verb 終わる (owaru), which means 'to end' or 'to finish'. This verb itself has ancient roots in the Japanese language. Its origins can be traced back to classical Japanese, where it was used to describe the cessation of activities or the completion of processes.
Interestingly, the kanji character 終 itself has a fascinating history. It's composed of components that suggest 'silk thread' (糸 - ito) and 'a head' or 'beginning' (首 - kubi). One interpretation is that it relates to the end of a silkworm's life cycle or the final winding of silk thread. Another theory connects it to the idea of reaching the 'head' or 'end' of something, much like the head of a river being its source and the end being its mouth.
Over centuries, 終わり evolved from a verb into a noun, becoming a core part of everyday Japanese vocabulary. Its consistent usage across different historical periods highlights its fundamental importance in expressing the concept of conclusion. This enduring presence makes 終わり a word deeply embedded in the fabric of Japanese expression, reflecting a long history of marking beginnings and endings.
終わり (owari) is a versatile noun used in countless contexts. You'll often hear it combined with other words to specify what is ending. For example, 映画の終わり (eiga no owari) means 'the end of the movie', and 仕事の終わり (shigoto no owari) refers to 'the end of work'. The particle の (no) is typically used to connect 終わり to the thing that is ending.
In casual conversation, people might simply say 終わり！ (Owari!) to signal that something is finished, like when a game is over or a task is done. This is a very direct and common way to communicate completion. On the other hand, in more formal settings, you might use phrases like 終了 (shūryō), which also means 'end' or 'conclusion' but carries a more official tone, often used for events or official processes.
終わり can also be used to talk about the end of a period, like 一日の終わり (ichinichi no owari - end of the day) or 学期の終わり (gakki no owari - end of the semester). It’s important to note the nuance: while it means 'end', it doesn't always carry a negative connotation. It simply marks a transition. Understanding these common pairings, or collocations, will help you use 終わり naturally and accurately in your Japanese conversations.
The concept of 'end' is so fundamental that 終わり (owari) appears in many colorful Japanese idioms and expressions. These phrases often add a deeper layer of meaning beyond just 'the finish line'. Let's explore a few!
1. 終わり良ければ全て良し (Owari yokereba subete yoshi)
This is a very famous proverb! It literally translates to 'If the end is good, then everything is good'. It means that if the final outcome is successful, then all the preceding difficulties or problems don't matter as much. It emphasizes the importance of a positive conclusion.
2. 終わりがない (Owari ga nai)
This phrase means 'there is no end' or 'it's endless'. It's used to describe something that seems to go on forever, like an endless task or an unending problem. For example, 宿題は終わりがない (Shukudai wa owari ga nai) - 'Homework is endless'.
3. 終わりにする (Owari ni suru)
This is a common way to say 'to put an end to something' or 'to finish it'. It's a direct command or statement about concluding an action. For instance, これで終わりにするよ (Kore de owari ni suru yo) - 'I'm going to end it here / I'm done with this'.
4. 終わりと始まり (Owari to hajimari)
Meaning 'the end and the beginning'. This phrase captures the idea that one ending often leads to a new beginning. It’s a philosophical take on transitions, suggesting that endings are not always final but can be catalysts for new starts.
5. 終わり次第 (Owari shidai)
This means 'as soon as it finishes' or 'immediately after the end'. It's used to indicate that something will happen right after a particular event concludes. For example, 会議が終わり次第、ご連絡します (Kaigi ga owari shidai, gorenraku shimasu) - 'I will contact you as soon as the meeting ends'.
Let's break down the grammar and pronunciation of 終わり (owari). As a noun, it often follows the particle の (no) when referring to the end *of* something. For example, 物語の終わり (monogatari no owari) means 'the end of the story'. You might also see it used with particles like に (ni) or で (de) to indicate the point of ending.
Pronunciation-wise, 終わり (owari) is pronounced with four distinct sounds: O-wa-ri. The stress is relatively even across the syllables, without a strong emphasis on any single one, which is typical for many Japanese words. When spoken naturally, it flows smoothly. There isn't really a plural form for 終わり as it refers to a singular concept of an end point.
When it comes to pronunciation errors for learners, sometimes the 'r' sound can be tricky. In Japanese, the 'r' sound is often a flap, similar to the 'tt' sound in the American English word 'butter' or 'ladder', rather than a hard 'r'. So, practicing the smooth transition from 'wa' to 'ri' is key. There are no articles (like 'a' or 'the') in Japanese, so you don't need to worry about those with 終わり. It's a straightforward noun that fits neatly into Japanese sentence structures.
Fun Fact
The kanji 終 is thought to be composed of 糸 (silk thread) and 首 (head/neck), possibly relating to the end of a silkworm's life or the finishing of a thread.
Pronunciation Guide
The 'o' sound is like the 'o' in 'hot', the 'wa' is like in 'water', and the 'ri' is a light flap sound, similar to the 'tt' in 'butter' in American English, but softer.
Similar to UK pronunciation. The emphasis is on the second syllable 'wa'. The 'ri' is a quick flap of the tongue.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing 'r' too strongly, like an English 'r'.
- Adding unnecessary stress to the first syllable 'O'.
- Making the 'i' sound too long.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to read in simple contexts, harder in idiomatic or formal usage.
Easy for basic sentences, requires care for formal/idiomatic use.
Easy to pronounce and use in basic phrases, nuance requires practice.
Commonly heard, easy to understand in context.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
고급
Grammar to Know
Using の (no) for possession/relation
映画の終わり (eiga no owari - the end of the movie)
Verb conjugation: ～て form + から / ～次第
食べ終わってから、片付けます。(Tabe owatte kara, katazukemasu - After finishing eating, I'll clean up.) / 終わり次第、連絡します。(Owari shidai, renraku shimasu - I'll contact you as soon as it ends.)
Transitive vs. Intransitive Verbs (終える vs 終わる)
宿題を終えた (shukudai o oeta - I finished homework [transitive]) vs. 授業が終わった (jugyō ga owatta - the class ended [intransitive])
Examples by Level
ゲームは終わりです。
game TOPIC-MARKER end is.
です (desu) is a polite copula.
学校は終わり。
school TOPIC-MARKER end.
Short, informal sentence.
おやつの時間、終わり！
snack 's time, end!
Exclamatory ending for emphasis.
これは終わりです。
this TOPIC-MARKER end is.
Simple statement of fact.
仕事の終わりは５時です。
work 's end TOPIC-MARKER 5 o'clock is.
Using の (no) to show possession/relation.
映画の終わりは悲しい。
movie 's end TOPIC-MARKER sad.
Describing the end of something.
これで終わり。
with this end.
Common phrase to signal completion.
終わり、また明日！
end, again tomorrow!
Used as a farewell after an activity.
今日の仕事はこれで終わりです。
today 's work TOPIC-MARKER with this end is.
Using これで (kore de) to mean 'with this' or 'that's it'.
物語の終わりはハッピーエンドでした。
story 's end TOPIC-MARKER happy end was.
Describing the nature of the end.
祭りの終わりは花火で締めくくられました。
festival 's end TOPIC-MARKER fireworks by concluded.
Passive voice construction.
彼のスピーチは、感動的な言葉で終わりを迎えました。
his speech TOPIC-MARKER moving words by end welcomed.
Using 迎えました (mukae mashita) - 'welcomed' - for a more descriptive end.
このプロジェクトの終わりが見えてきました。
this project 's end TOPIC-MARKER visible became.
Using 見えてきました (miete kimashita) - 'came into view' - to indicate nearing the end.
夏休みの終わりはいつも寂しいものです。
summer vacation 's end TOPIC-MARKER always lonely thing is.
Expressing a feeling about the end.
終わり次第、すぐに連絡します。
end as soon as, immediately contact will.
Using 次第 (shidai) for 'as soon as'.
ゲームの終わりまであと少しです。
game 's end until still little is.
Using まで (made) - 'until'.
このプロジェクトの終わりには、大きな達成感がありました。
this project 's end TOPIC-MARKER big sense of accomplishment was.
Expressing feelings associated with the end.
終わり良ければ全て良し、という言葉を信じています。
end if good all good, that saying believe.
Using という (to iu) - 'called' or 'saying that'.
彼のキャリアの終わりは、多くの人々に惜しまれました。
his career 's end TOPIC-MARKER many people by mourned.
Passive voice indicating regret at the end.
終わりが見えないほど、問題は複雑化していた。
end visible not degree, problem complicated.
Using ほど (hodo) - 'to the extent that'.
新しい時代の始まりは、古い時代の終わりと共に訪れる。
new era 's beginning TOPIC-MARKER old era 's end together with visits.
Philosophical statement about transitions.
会議の終わり次第、次の議題に移りましょう。
meeting 's end as soon as, next agenda move let's.
Formal usage of 次第 (shidai).
このドラマは、予想外の展開で終わりを迎えました。
this drama TOPIC-MARKER unexpected development by end welcomed.
Describing an unexpected conclusion.
人生の終わりを意識すると、今を大切に生きようと思える。
life 's end to be conscious of, now to cherish live can think.
Reflective usage concerning mortality.
その長期プロジェクトは、当初の予定よりも早く終わりを迎えた。
that long-term project TOPIC-MARKER initial plan than early end welcomed.
Using 迎える (mukaeru) - 'to greet/welcome' - for a more formal end.
彼の芸術活動の終わりは、多くのファンにとって大きな損失だった。
his artistic activities 's end TOPIC-MARKER many fans for big loss was.
Expressing significant impact of an end.
終わり良ければ全て良しと言うが、プロセスも同様に重要である。
end if good all good say but, process also similarly important is.
Acknowledging a proverb while adding nuance.
この紛争の終わりは、まだ見通せない状況が続いている。
this conflict 's end TOPIC-MARKER still cannot see situation continues.
Using 見通せない (mitosenai) - 'cannot foresee'.
時代の終わりは、しばしば混乱と変革を伴う。
era 's end TOPIC-MARKER often chaos and change accompanies.
Discussing the broader implications of an era's end.
終わり次第、速やかに次の段階へ進むよう指示があった。
end as soon as, promptly next stage to proceed instruction was.
Formal instruction using 次第 (shidai).
彼の小説は、読者に深い余韻を残す終わり方だった。
his novel TOPIC-MARKER readers deep lingering feeling leave ending way was.
Describing the quality and impact of the ending.
終わりが近づくと、人はしばしば過去を振り返るものである。
end approaches when, people often past look back is.
General observation about human behavior near the end.
その古代文明の終わりは、気候変動によるものと推測されている。
that ancient civilization 's end TOPIC-MARKER climate change due to is presumed.
Academic speculation about the cause of an end.
彼の芸術的キャリアの終わりは、単なる引退ではなく、新たな創造的探求の始まりだった。
his artistic career 's end TOPIC-MARKER mere retirement not, new creative exploration 's beginning was.
Reframing an end as a new beginning.
終わり良ければ全て良しとは言うものの、その過程で生じた多くの犠牲は無視できない。
end if good all good though say, that process in occurred many sacrifices ignore cannot.
Critiquing a common proverb by acknowledging its limitations.
この交渉の終わりは、双方にとって満足のいくものでなければならない。
this negotiation 's end TOPIC-MARKER both sides for satisfactory must be.
Setting conditions for a successful conclusion.
歴史の終わりという概念は、現代思想においても重要な論点となっている。
history 's end that concept TOPIC-MARKER modern thought in also important point has become.
Discussing abstract concepts related to 'end'.
終わり次第、関係各所へ迅速な情報共有が求められる。
end as soon as, relevant parties to prompt information sharing is required.
Formal requirement for action post-conclusion.
彼の人生の終わり方は、多くの人々に感銘を与えた。
his life 's way of ending TOPIC-MARKER many people to impression gave.
Focusing on the manner or quality of the end.
終わりと始まりが不可分に結びついていることを、我々はしばしば見過ごしがちだ。
end and beginning inseparable tied together is is, we often overlook tend.
Philosophical reflection on the interconnectedness of endings and beginnings.
その帝国の終わりは、内部崩壊と外部からの侵略が複合的に作用した結果であった。
that empire 's end TOPIC-MARKER internal collapse and external from invasion that complexly acted result was.
Complex analysis of historical causation for an end.
芸術家としての彼のキャリアの終わりは、自己変革のプロセスを経て、新たな表現形態へと昇華した。
as an artist his career 's end TOPIC-MARKER self-transformation 's process through, new expression form into sublimated.
Elevated language describing transformation at the end of a phase.
「終わり良ければ全て良し」という格言は、結果主義の観点からは魅力的だが、倫理的な観点からは批判の余地がある。
'end if good all good' that maxim TOPIC-MARKER result-oriented perspective from attractive but, ethical perspective from criticism room exists.
Critical examination of a proverb's philosophical underpinnings.
この未曾有の危機的状況の終わりを告げる明確な兆候は、未だ杳として知れない。
this unprecedented crisis situation 's end to announce clear signs TOPIC-MARKER still far-off unknown.
Highly formal and literary language for an uncertain end.
歴史の終わり論は、冷戦終結後に広範な議論を巻き起こしたが、その妥当性については未だ決着を見ていない。
history 's end theory TOPIC-MARKER Cold War end after wide discussion stirred but, its validity about still conclusion has not seen.
Academic discourse on historical theories.
終わり次第、関係当局への正式な報告書提出が義務付けられている。
end as soon as, to relevant authorities formal report submission is mandated.
Strict legal or procedural requirement.
彼の人生の終わり方は、ストア派哲学の実践的応用としてしばしば引用される。
his life 's way of ending TOPIC-MARKER Stoic philosophy 's practical application as often cited is.
Referencing philosophical interpretations of an end.
終わりと始まりの弁証法的な相互浸透こそが、存在の本質をなしていると論じる哲学者もいる。
end and beginning 's dialectical mutual permeation precisely TOPIC-MARKER existence 's essence constitutes argue philosophers also exist.
Advanced philosophical concept using dialectics.
자주 쓰는 조합
Idioms & Expressions
"終わり良ければ全て良し"
If the end result is good, then everything is considered good, regardless of prior difficulties.
試験に合格したから、徹夜した苦労も報われた。終わり良ければ全て良しだね。
proverbial"終わりがない"
Endless; never-ending; without conclusion.
この仕事は終わりがないように感じてしまうことがある。
neutral"終わりにする"
To put an end to something; to finish; to stop.
もう遅いから、今日はこれで終わりにするよ。
casual"終わりと始まり"
The end and the beginning; suggesting that endings often lead to new beginnings.
卒業は一つの終わりであり、同時に新しい人生の始まりでもある。
neutral/philosophical"終わり次第"
As soon as something ends; immediately after completion.
仕事が終わり次第、すぐに連絡します。
formal/neutral"終わりを告げる"
To announce the end; to signal the conclusion of something.
時計の針が12時を指し、一日の終わりを告げた。
neutral/literaryEasily Confused
Both mean 'end' or 'finish'.
'Owari' is the general, neutral term. 'Shūryō' is more formal and often used for official events, projects, or processes.
会議は午後5時に終了しました。(Formal meeting end) vs. 夏休みはもうすぐ終わりだ。(Casual end of summer vacation)
Both relate to the final part of something.
'Saigo' means 'last' in a sequence (last person, last item). 'Owari' refers to the end of a period or event itself.
これが最後のチャンスです。(This is the last chance - saigo) vs. 映画の終わりは感動的だった。(The end of the movie was moving - owari)
Both relate to a point in time when something stops or must be done.
'Shimekiri' specifically means 'deadline' or 'closing time'. 'Owari' is the general concept of 'end'.
レポートの締め切りは明日です。(The deadline for the report is tomorrow) vs. 仕事の終わりは5時です。(The end of work is at 5 o'clock)
'Owari' is the noun form derived from the verb 'oeru'.
'Oeru' is a transitive verb meaning 'to finish something' (e.g., 仕事を終える - to finish work). 'Owari' is the noun 'the end' or 'the finish'.
彼は仕事を終えた。(He finished his work - oeta) vs. 仕事の終わりは疲れる。(The end of work is tiring - owari)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + の + 終わり
夏休みの終わりはいつも寂しい。
これで + 終わり + です/だ
はい、これで終わりです。
終わり + に + する
今日はこれで終わりにする。
終わり + 次第
終わり次第、連絡します。
終わり + が + 来る/ある
どんな楽しい時間にも終わりが来る。
어휘 가족
Nouns
Verbs
관련
How to Use It
Formality Scale
자주 하는 실수
While both mean 'end', 終了 is more formal and suitable for official events like meetings or project completions. 終わり is more general.
最後 means 'last' in a sequence (last chance, last item). 終わり refers to the end of a period, event, or process itself (end of the day, end of the movie).
締め切り specifically refers to a deadline. 終わり is the end itself, not the point by which something must be done.
Learners might incorrectly say 'プロジェクトは無事終わりました' (which is correct for the verb) but intend to use the noun '終わり'. Ensure you are using the noun form correctly with particles like の or を.
While 終わり！ is fine for casual contexts, formal settings require more polite or formal expressions like 終了いたします (shūryō itashimasu).
Tips
Visualize the Finish Line
Imagine a runner crossing a finish line. That moment of completion is the 'owari'. Connect the sound 'O-wa-ri' to the visual of reaching the end.
Endings as Beginnings
Reflect on the Japanese cultural perspective where endings are often seen not just as final points, but as transitions to new beginnings. This nuance is captured in phrases like '終わりと始まり'.
The Power of の
Most often, you'll connect 'owari' to what is ending using the particle の (no). Practice phrases like 'work no owari', 'movie no owari'.
Flap That 'R'!
Practice the Japanese 'r' sound – it's a quick flap, not a hard English 'r'. Listen to native speakers say 'owari' and try to mimic the light touch of the tongue.
Avoid Deadline Confusion
Don't use 'owari' for deadlines. Remember 締め切り (shimekiri) is the correct word for a due date.
Kanji Clues
The kanji 終 has interesting components (silk thread + head/neck). Thinking about the 'end' of a thread or life cycle can help remember its meaning.
Daily Endings Journal
Every day, write down one thing that ended using 'owari'. E.g., '今日の仕事は終わり。' (Kyō no shigoto wa owari.) - 'Today's work is finished.'
The Exclamatory 'Owari!'
Use 'Owari!' enthusiastically when something fun finishes (like a game) or when you've completed a task. It's a quick, common way to signal completion.
Verb Phrase: 'Owari ni suru'
Learn the useful phrase 'owari ni suru' (to put an end to something). Practice saying 'Kore de owari ni shimasu' (I'll end it here).
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine an 'O' shaped ring (like a donut) which is the 'end' of the road. The 'wa' sound reminds you of 'way' or 'road'. The 'ri' sounds like 'ring'. So, 'O-wa-ri' = 'O' shaped 'way' 'ring' = the end.
Visual Association
Picture a marathon runner crossing the finish line, exhausted but triumphant. The finish line signifies the 'owari'.
Word Web
챌린지
Try using 'owari' in sentences describing the end of your daily activities: 'My study session is owari.' 'My work day is owari.'
어원
Japanese
Original meaning: The verb 終わる (owaru) originally meant 'to cease', 'to stop', or 'to reach the end'.
문화적 맥락
While generally neutral, discussing the 'end' of life (終焉 - shūen) requires sensitivity.
In English, 'the end' can be very final. Japanese culture sometimes views endings more cyclically, where an end is also a beginning.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
End of the day/work
- 仕事の終わり (shigoto no owari) - End of work
- これで終わりです (kore de owari desu) - It's finished now
- お疲れ様でした (otsukaresama deshita) - Thank you for your hard work (said at the end of the day/task)
End of events/activities
- 会議の終わり (kaigi no owari) - End of the meeting
- 祭りの終わり (matsuri no owari) - End of the festival
- ゲームの終わり (gēmu no owari) - End of the game
End of periods/terms
- 学期の終わり (gakki no owari) - End of the semester
- 一年の終わり (ichinen no owari) - End of the year
- 夏休みの終わり (natsu yasumi no owari) - End of summer vacation
Philosophical/Reflective
- 終わりと始まり (owari to hajimari) - The end and the beginning
- 終わりが見えない (owari ga mienai) - Cannot see the end (endless)
- 人生の終わり (jinsei no owari) - The end of life
Conversation Starters
"What did you do at the end of your day yesterday?"
"Do you prefer stories with happy endings or surprising ones?"
"How do you feel when a long holiday finally comes to an end?"
"What's something you're working on that you hope has a good 'owari'?"
"Is there a famous movie or book ending you remember well?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time when an ending felt like a new beginning.
Write about something you recently finished. How did it feel?
Reflect on the proverb '終わり良ければ全て良し'. Do you agree with it? Why or why not?
Imagine you could control the ending of a situation in your life. What would you want it to be?
자주 묻는 질문
8 질문終わり is the general, neutral term for 'end'. 終了 is more formal and typically used for official events, projects, or processes that have been formally concluded. Think of 'end of the day' (owari) vs. 'meeting concluded' (shūryō).
Yes, but 結末 (ketsumatsu) is often preferred for the conclusion or outcome of a story, drama, or novel, as it implies a resolution. 終わり can be used more generally for the final part.
Not at all! While it signifies cessation, it's often neutral. In contexts like '終わりと始まり' (end and beginning), it's seen as a natural transition or even a positive step towards something new.
In casual situations, you can simply say 終わり！ (Owari!). For a slightly more polite or complete sentence, you could say これで終わりです (Kore de owari desu).
'Owari shidai' means 'as soon as it ends' or 'immediately after the conclusion'. It's often used in instructions or promises, like 'I will contact you as soon as the meeting ends.'
No, 終わり refers to the concept of an end point and doesn't have a plural form.
The noun 終わり comes from the verb 終わる (owaru - to end, intransitive) and 終える (oeru - to end, transitive). While 終わり itself is a noun, it's used in verb phrases like '終わりにする' (owari ni suru - to put an end to).
It's a very well-known and commonly used proverb in Japan, often invoked to emphasize the importance of a successful final outcome.
셀프 테스트
今日の勉強はこれで ____ です。
The sentence means 'Today's studying is finished with this.' So, 'owari' (end) is the correct word.
Which word means 'the end of the day'?
'Ichinichi no owari' specifically means 'the end of the day'.
The phrase '終わり次第' means 'in the middle of'.
'Owari shidai' means 'as soon as it ends' or 'immediately after the end'.
Word
뜻
These examples show how 'owari' is used with 'no' to specify what is ending.
The correct sentence is '終わり次第、すぐ連絡します。' (Owari shidai, sugu renraku shimasu.) meaning 'I will contact you immediately after it ends.'
その長い物語は、意外な ____ を迎えた。
'Ketsumatsu' (conclusion) is often used for stories and fits the context of an 'unexpected ending'.
Which phrase best captures the meaning of 'endless'?
'Owari ga nai' directly translates to 'there is no end'.
The proverb '終わり良ければ全て良し' implies that the process is unimportant.
While it emphasizes the outcome, it doesn't necessarily dismiss the importance of the process; rather, a good outcome can overshadow prior difficulties.
彼の人生の ____ は、多くの人々に感銘を与えた。
'Owari kata' (way of ending) specifically refers to the manner or style in which someone's life concluded, fitting the context of leaving an impression.
Create a sentence using the idiom '終わりと始まり' (owari to hajimari).
This sentence correctly uses the idiom to express the dual nature of graduation as both an end and a beginning.
점수: /10
Summary
Mastering 'owari' unlocks your ability to discuss conclusions, transitions, and completions in Japanese.
- 終わり (owari) is the common Japanese word for 'end' or 'finish'.
- It's a versatile noun used in many contexts, from daily life to formal events.
- Often used with the particle の (no) to specify what is ending (e.g., 仕事の終わり).
- Idioms like '終わり良ければ全て良し' show its cultural significance.
Visualize the Finish Line
Imagine a runner crossing a finish line. That moment of completion is the 'owari'. Connect the sound 'O-wa-ri' to the visual of reaching the end.
Context is Key
Remember that while 'owari' is versatile, more formal situations might call for 終了 (shūryō) or 結末 (ketsumatsu). Pay attention to the context!
Endings as Beginnings
Reflect on the Japanese cultural perspective where endings are often seen not just as final points, but as transitions to new beginnings. This nuance is captured in phrases like '終わりと始まり'.
The Power of の
Most often, you'll connect 'owari' to what is ending using the particle の (no). Practice phrases like 'work no owari', 'movie no owari'.
예시
一日の終わりにはいつも疲れている。
Related Content
general 관련 단어
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
～について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
～ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.
ごろ
A2About, approximately (time).
うえ
A2At a higher position than.
絶対
B1Absolutely; definitely; never.
絶対に
B1Absolutely; definitely.
