〜また
It means 'again' or 'also', like when you do something more than once or include something extra.
Explanation at your level:
Hello! Let's learn 'mata' (また). It's a word you can use when you want to say 'again'. Like, if you eat yummy ice cream, you can say 'I want to eat it mata!' That means you want to eat it again. Or, if you say 'bye' to a friend and you know you will see them soon, you can say 'Mata ne!' which means 'See you again!' It's a simple word for doing something more than one time.
The Japanese adverb 'mata' (また) is really useful for talking about things that happen more than once. Its most common meaning is 'again'. For example, if you are learning Japanese and you practice the same grammar point mata, you are practicing it again. You can also use it to say goodbye, like 'Mata ashita' (また明日), which means 'See you tomorrow'. It helps you talk about future meetings or repeated actions.
In Japanese, 'mata' (また) is a versatile adverb. Primarily, it signifies repetition, meaning 'again'. You'd use it when you intend to perform an action multiple times, such as 'Mata ikimashou' (また行きましょう) - 'Let's go again'. Beyond simple repetition, 'mata' can also function as a connector, similar to 'also' or 'furthermore', linking additional ideas or items. For instance, 'I like cats, and mata, I like dogs.' This adds a layer of complexity and flow to your sentences, making them sound more natural.
'Mata' (また) is a fundamental Japanese adverb with dual core meanings: recurrence ('again') and addition ('also', 'furthermore'). Its usage in indicating repetition is widespread, from simple actions like 'mata nomimasu' (また飲みます - 'I'll drink again') to more abstract concepts. As a connector, 'mata' offers a smoother transition between clauses or ideas than simply listing them. Consider its use in expressing a return to a previous state, like 'Ima wa mata...' (今はまた... - 'Now, again...'), often implying a shift or renewal. Mastering 'mata' enhances your ability to express nuances of time, sequence, and addition.
'Mata' (また) serves as a crucial adverb in Japanese, embodying the concepts of recurrence and addition. Its primary function is to denote repetition, as in 'Mata aimashou' (また会いましょう - 'Let's meet again'). However, its capacity to act as a conjunctive adverb, akin to 'furthermore' or 'moreover', adds significant depth. This allows for the seamless integration of supplementary information or contrasting viewpoints, as in 'Kono mondai wa muzukashii. Mata, jikan ga nai.' (この問題は難しい。また、時間がない。 - 'This problem is difficult. Furthermore, there is no time.') Understanding the subtle contextual shifts in 'mata' is vital for advanced fluency, allowing for sophisticated expression of temporal and logical relationships.
The adverb 'mata' (また) represents a cornerstone of Japanese temporal and additive expression. Its etymological roots, possibly linked to concepts of stepping or division, have evolved to encompass both the cyclical nature of events ('again') and the additive linkage of ideas ('also', 'furthermore'). In advanced usage, 'mata' can carry subtle implications of cyclical return, renewed effort, or even a sense of inevitability. For instance, 'Mata wa' (または) functions as 'or', highlighting a choice between alternatives. The phrase 'mata to nai' (またとない) showcases its capacity to form idiomatic expressions denoting uniqueness. Mastery of 'mata' involves appreciating its multifaceted semantic range, from mundane repetition to nuanced conjunctive functions, reflecting a deep understanding of Japanese linguistic structure and cultural expression.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Mata (また) is a versatile Japanese adverb.
- Main meanings: 'again' (repetition) and 'also'/'furthermore' (addition).
- Common in casual farewells like 'Mata ne!' and 'Mata ashita!'.
- Can function as a conjunction 'mata wa' (or).
Hey there! Let's dive into the super useful Japanese word 'mata' (また). It's an adverb that pops up a lot in everyday conversations, and it's really handy once you get the hang of it! Think of it as a little word with a big job, helping us talk about things happening more than once or adding extra information.
The main flavors of 'mata' are 'again' and 'also'. When you want to say you're going to do something one more time, 'mata' is your go-to word. For example, if you enjoyed a delicious meal, you might say you want to eat it 'mata' (again). It’s all about repetition and continuation.
But wait, there's more! 'Mata' can also mean 'also' or 'furthermore'. It’s like adding another ingredient to your sentence to make it richer. So, if you’re talking about wanting one thing and 'mata', you want something else too, 'mata' helps you connect those ideas smoothly. It’s a versatile little word that makes your Japanese flow much more naturally!
The word 'mata' (また) comes to us from Old Japanese. Its roots are a bit like tracing a path back through time! Originally, it's thought to have connections to words related to 'legs' or 'thighs', perhaps implying a step or a division, which could metaphorically extend to 'another' or 'next'. Imagine taking another step forward – that’s ‘mata’!
Over centuries, the meaning evolved. From concepts of 'next' or 'subsequent', it broadened to encompass the idea of repetition. Think about how you might take a 'next step' (mata) to do something again. This evolution is common in language; words often start with a concrete meaning and gradually expand to cover more abstract ideas.
In classical Japanese, you might see variations or related forms that hint at this development. The journey of 'mata' from potentially physical movement to temporal repetition and addition shows the fascinating way language adapts and grows. It’s a testament to how humans express the concepts of time, sequence, and addition through subtle shifts in meaning.
Using 'mata' is all about context, but it's super common! The most frequent use is for repetition. If you say you'll call 'mata' (また), it means you'll call again. If you want to eat sushi 'mata', you're craving it again! It’s straightforward and friendly.
When 'mata' means 'also' or 'furthermore', it often links related ideas. For instance, 'I like apples, and 'mata', I like oranges.' (りんごが好きで、また、みかんも好きです。) Here, 'mata' smoothly adds the second item. It’s a great way to connect thoughts without making sentences too long or clunky.
In terms of formality, 'mata' is quite versatile. It works perfectly in casual chats with friends, but it's also acceptable in many slightly more formal situations, like talking to a shopkeeper or a colleague you know well. For very formal academic or business settings, you might opt for more specific conjunctions, but 'mata' is generally safe for everyday interactions. Think of it as a friendly bridge between ideas!
Mata ne! (またね！): This is a super common and casual way to say 'See you later!' or 'Bye for now!'. It literally means 'Again, okay?', implying you'll meet or see the person again. It's friendly and used among friends or people you know well.
Mata ashita (また明日): This means 'See you tomorrow!'. It's a specific way to say goodbye when you know you'll be seeing the person the next day. It’s a bit more specific than 'mata ne!' and very practical.
Mata au hi made (また会う日まで): This translates to 'Until the day we meet again'. It's a more poetic or formal farewell, often used in songs or literature, carrying a sense of longing or a promise of a future reunion.
Ima wa mata (今はまた): This phrase means 'now again' or 'this time again'. It suggests a return to a previous state or situation, perhaps after a period of change. It implies a cyclical nature or a renewed beginning.
Mata to nai (またとない): Meaning 'unprecedented' or 'rare', this expression is used to describe something unique or a chance that won't come again. It emphasizes the specialness and singularity of an opportunity or event.
Pronouncing 'mata' (また) is pretty straightforward! It has two syllables: 'ma' and 'ta'. Both sounds are common in English. The 'a' sounds are like the 'a' in 'father'. So, it's pronounced roughly like MAH-TAH.
In terms of grammar, 'mata' functions as an adverb. This means it modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. You'll often see it placed before the verb or phrase it's describing. For example, 'mata ikimasu' (また行きます) means 'I will go again'.
There aren't really plural forms or countability issues with 'mata' itself, as it's an adverb describing *how* or *when* something happens. It doesn't typically take articles like 'a' or 'the'. Understanding its adverbial role is key to using it correctly in sentences. It’s a building block that adds nuance to your Japanese!
Fun Fact
The evolution from a potentially physical meaning ('next step') to temporal ('again') and additive ('also') shows how abstract concepts develop in language.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'MAH-tah', with the 'a' sounds similar to the 'a' in 'father'.
Sounds like 'MAH-tah', with the 'a' sounds similar to the 'a' in 'father'.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing the 'a' sounds too short, like the 'a' in 'cat'.
- Adding an 'r' sound between the syllables.
- Stressing the second syllable too heavily.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to read in simple contexts, moderate in complex sentences.
Easy for basic repetition/farewells, requires care for nuance.
Easy for common phrases, requires practice for natural flow.
Commonly heard, easy to recognize in context.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adverb Placement
Adverbs like 'mata' often precede the verb they modify.
Conjunctions
'Mata wa' functions as a coordinating conjunction like 'or'.
Particles
Understanding particles like 'mo' helps differentiate from adverbial uses of 'mata'.
Examples by Level
Mata ne!
Again, okay!
Casual farewell phrase.
Mata ashita.
Again tomorrow.
Used when meeting the next day.
Mata ikimasu.
Again go.
Verb 'ikimasu' (to go) modified by 'mata'.
Kore o mata kudasai.
This again please.
Requesting more of something.
Mata o-genki de.
Again, well.
Wishing someone well until next time.
Mata atode.
Again later.
Saying you'll do something later.
Mata aimashou.
Again meet.
Expressing hope to meet again.
Mata ne, byebye!
Again, okay, bye-bye!
Very casual closing.
Kyou wa kore de owari. Mata raishuu!
Today is this with end. Again next week!
Used to mark the end of an activity and promise continuation.
Kono hon, omoshiroi kara mata yomimasu.
This book, interesting because again read.
Indicates rereading a book.
Sumimasen, mou ichido onegaishimasu. Mata.
Excuse me, one more time please. Again.
Used when asking someone to repeat something.
Densha ga okureta. Mata densha ni noru.
Train was late. Again train ride.
Expressing taking the train again.
Kono resutoran, oishii desu. Mata kimasu.
This restaurant, delicious is. Again come.
Expressing intent to revisit a place.
Shiken wa mada owatte nai. Mata ganbarou.
Exam is not yet finished. Again let's do our best.
Encouraging someone to try again.
Kinou no ame ga yanda. Mata hareta.
Yesterday's rain stopped. Again cleared up.
Describing a return to a previous weather condition.
A: Mata raishuu aimashou! B: Hai, mata!
A: Again next week let's meet! B: Yes, again!
Simple agreement to meet again.
Kono tsugi no shiken wa motto chanto benkyou shite, mata katsuyou shiyou to omotte imasu.
This next exam is more properly study do, again utilize want to think I am.
Expressing the intention to apply learned knowledge again.
Kare wa itsumo chiiku ni okureru. Mata, kankei nai koto o hanashi hajimeru.
He always to meeting is late. Furthermore, relation not things talk start.
Using 'mata' to add another negative behavior.
Kono mondai wa kantan ni kaiketsu dekinai. Mata, shiken de mo deru you desu.
This problem is easily solvable not. Furthermore, exam in also appear seems.
Adding information about the difficulty and exam relevance.
Shourai no koto wa dare ni mo wakarimasen. Mata, jiko de nai koto o inorimashou.
Future's things is to no one understandable. Also, accident not things pray let's.
Expressing a wish for future well-being alongside uncertainty.
Kono keiken wa, mata to nai koto deshita.
This experience is, again not is thing was.
Describing a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
A: Shourai wa nani o shitai desu ka? B: Mada kimetemasen ga, mata kangaete mimasu.
A: Future is what do want is? B: Still decided not but, again thinking will try.
Expressing ongoing consideration of future plans.
Kono jouhou wa tasukari masu. Mata, hoka ni nani ka arimasu ka?
This information is helpful. Furthermore, other anything is there?
Requesting additional information after receiving some.
Kare no hanashi wa itsumo omoshiroi. Mata, atarashii hakken mo aru.
His stories are always interesting. Also, new discoveries also exist.
Adding that the stories contain new discoveries.
Kono shinpojiumu de wa, shakai mondai ni tsuite no kankyoushin ga mata takamaru koto ga kitai sareru.
This symposium in, social issues about concern is again heighten that is expected.
Suggests that concern will be further heightened.
Shou ga nai kara, mata hajimeru shika nai.
Cannot be helped because, again start only exists.
Implies a reluctant but necessary repetition of an action.
Kono giron wa taishuu ni katsuyou dekiru. Mata, sono kousei na shiten wa ningen-teki na shaka ni kiyou suru.
This discussion is widely applicable. Furthermore, its objective viewpoint contributes to a humane society.
Connects the applicability of a discussion with its positive societal contribution.
Katsute no shippai kara manabi, mata atarashii kadai ni torikumu koto ga juyou da.
Past failures from learn, again new challenges tackle that is important.
Emphasizes learning from past failures to tackle new challenges.
Kono kikai wa mata to nai, sono gijutsu wa sekai ni kyoui o ataeru.
This opportunity is unprecedented, its technology the world surprise gives.
Highlights the uniqueness of an opportunity and its impact.
A: Shiken no kekka wa dou deshita ka? B: Yappari, mata dame deshita.
A: Exam's results how were? B: As expected, again failure was.
Expresses a repeated negative outcome.
Kare no shigoto wa teinei de aru. Mata, sono souzou-sei no takasa wa hyouka ni atai suru.
His work is meticulous. Furthermore, its creativity's height is worthy of praise.
Adds praise for creativity to the description of meticulous work.
Kono bunka ni tsuite, mata hitotsu atarashii kantei ga arawareta.
This culture about, again one new perspective has appeared.
Indicates the emergence of another new viewpoint.
Kono ren'ai-ron wa, shakai-teki kankyou no henka to mata shinzou-teki na kankei no kouritsu o kousatsu suru.
This theory of love, social environmental changes and furthermore psychological relationship's formation examines.
Links societal shifts with the formation of psychological bonds.
Sono mondai wa taishuu ni yonda koto ga aru ga, mata yoru ni natte mo kaerarenai.
That problem is widely known that it exists, but again night becomes even cannot be changed.
Suggests a problem that persists despite being known and attempts to change it.
Kono bunka-ron wa, kodai no yomimono to mata kin-gendai no bunken o hikaku shite, sono hennka no yōso o tsuikyuu suru.
This cultural analysis, ancient texts and furthermore modern documents comparing, its change's factors traces.
Compares ancient and modern texts to trace cultural evolution.
Kono shisou wa, mukashi kara aru mono da ga, mata atarashii jidai ni oite mo sono kachi o ushinawanai.
This ideology, from long ago exists thing is, but again new era in even its value loses not.
Highlights the enduring value of an ideology across different eras.
Kono kikai wa tokuni mata to nai mono de, sono kouteki na eikyou wa takai.
This opportunity is particularly unprecedented thing and, its positive influence is high.
Emphasizes the exceptional nature of an opportunity and its positive impact.
A: Keizai seisaku no houkou wa dou naru deshou ka? B: Zennou-teki na kadai wa katazukimashita ga, mata shinkoku na shomondai ga yuki-domari ni naru.
A: Economic policy's direction how will become? B: All urgent tasks are finished but, again serious problems become dead ends.
Indicates that after resolving some issues, new serious problems emerge.
Kono sakuhin wa, sono bunshou no yōryoku to mata shakai-teki na messeeji no fukami de kirei ni kintou shite iru.
This work, its prose's power and furthermore social message's depth beautifully balances.
Praises a work for balancing literary merit with social commentary.
Kono kenkyuu wa, sono shou-gen to mata sono kanousei o shime shite iru.
This research, its limitations and furthermore its potential shows.
Presents both the constraints and potential of a research study.
Kono shijika wa, shakai-teki kinchou no kage to mata sono bunmei-teki na kiban no yōsei o yōyaku suru.
This poetic work, societal tension's shadow and furthermore its civilizational foundation's necessity summarizes.
Connects societal tension with the essential need for civilizational underpinnings.
Sono mondai wa, taishuu ni yonda koto ga aru ni shitemo, mata yoru ni natte mo sono honshitsu wa kaerarenai.
That problem, widely known that it exists even if, again night becomes even its true nature cannot be changed.
Suggests that the core nature of a problem remains immutable despite widespread awareness and the passage of time.
Kono bunka-ron wa, kodai no yomimono to mata kin-gendai no bunken o hikaku shite, sono hennka no yōso o tsuikyuu suru koto de, sono jittai o akiraka ni suru.
This cultural analysis, ancient texts and furthermore modern documents comparing, its change's factors tracing by, its reality makes clear.
Clarifies the reality of cultural evolution by tracing factors of change through comparative textual analysis.
Kono shisou wa, mukashi kara aru mono da ga, mata atarashii jidai ni oite mo sono kachi wa koutei sare, sono seishin wa ikiyou sare tsuzukeru.
This ideology, from long ago exists thing is, but again new era in even its value is affirmed, its spirit continues to be lived.
Highlights the enduring affirmation and continued practice of an ideology's spirit across eras.
Kono kikai wa tokuni mata to nai mono de, sono kouteki na eikyou wa sekai-teki na shakai-zou ni made oyobu.
This opportunity is particularly unprecedented thing and, its positive influence is global societal structure to even reaches.
Emphasizes the unprecedented nature of an opportunity whose positive influence extends to global societal frameworks.
A: Keizai seisaku no houkou wa dou naru deshou ka? B: Zennou-teki na kadai wa katazukimashita ga, mata shinkoku na shomondai ga yuki-domari ni naru koto wa, sono kousei na kadai ni kiyou suru.
A: Economic policy's direction how will become? B: All urgent tasks are finished but, again serious problems become dead ends that, its objective tasks contribute to.
Suggests that the emergence of new, serious problems is a consequence of addressing objective tasks.
Kono sakuhin wa, sono bunshou no yōryoku to mata shakai-teki na messeeji no fukami de kirei ni kintou shite iru ga, sono kankyō-teki na eikyou wa takai.
This work, its prose's power and furthermore social message's depth beautifully balances, its environmental influence is high.
Praises a work for its balanced literary and social qualities, noting its significant environmental influence.
Kono kenkyuu wa, sono shou-gen to mata sono kanousei o shime shite iru ga, sono kouteki na katsuyou houhou ni tsuite wa, mata izure.
This research, its limitations and furthermore its potential shows, but its positive application methods about, again someday.
Indicates that while limitations and potential are shown, practical applications will be discussed at a future time.
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"Mata ne!"
See you later! / Bye for now!
Ja, mata ne! Ashita aimashou.
casual"Mata ashita"
See you tomorrow!
Otsukaresama deshita. Mata ashita!
casual"Mata au hi made"
Until the day we meet again.
Sayonara. Mata au hi made.
neutral/literary"Mata to nai"
Unprecedented, rare, one-of-a-kind.
Kono kikai wa mata to nai mono desu.
formal"Ima wa mata"
Now again; this time again; returning to a previous state.
Ima wa mata shigoto ni muchuu desu.
neutral"Mata wa"
Or; alternatively.
Kohi mata wa tea o okimashou.
neutral/formalEasily Confused
Both can indicate something happening again or in the future.
'Mou' often means 'already' or implies completion ('Mou tabemashita' - I've already eaten). It can also mean 'more' ('Mou sukoshi' - a little more). 'Mata' specifically means 'again' (repetition) or 'also'/'furthermore'.
Mata ikimasu. (I will go again.) vs. Mou ikimashita. (I have already gone.)
Both relate to sequence or future events.
'Mata' implies repetition or addition. 'Tsugi ni' (次に) specifically means 'next' in a sequence or order. It's about what comes after, not necessarily repeating.
Mata aimashou. (Let's meet again.) vs. Tsugi ni anata no ban desu. (Next, it's your turn.)
Both can mean 'furthermore' or 'also'.
'Mata' is generally more common and can be used in casual conversation. 'Sarani' (さらに) is more formal and often adds emphasis, meaning 'even more' or 'furthermore' in a more academic or written context.
Kare wa yasashii. Mata, atama mo ii. (He is kind. Also, he is smart.) vs. Kono mondai wa fukuzatsu de aru. Sarani, kinkyuu no taiou mo hitsuyou to suru. (This problem is complex. Furthermore, urgent measures are also necessary.)
Both can translate to 'also' or 'too'.
'Mo' (も) is a particle that attaches to nouns or pronouns to mean 'also' or 'too' (e.g., 'Watashi mo' - Me too). 'Mata' is an adverb that typically connects clauses or modifies verbs, indicating repetition or addition of actions/ideas.
Watashi mo ikimasu. (I will go too.) vs. Sore wa ii. Mata, kore wa dou desu ka? (That's good. Also, how about this?)
Sentence Patterns
Mata + Verb
Mata nomimasu. (I will drink again.)
Subject + wa + Mata + Adjective/Verb
Ima wa mata chigaimasu. (It's different now.)
Clause 1 + Mata + Clause 2
Kare wa yuukan da. Mata, kashikoi. (He is brave. Furthermore, he is intelligent.)
Mata wa
Kohi mata wa tea o onegaishimasu. (Coffee or tea, please.)
Mata + Noun + o + Verb
Mata shiken o ukeru koto ni narimashita. (I ended up taking the exam again.)
Word Family
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
'Mata' implies repetition of an action. 'Mou ikimashita' means 'I have already gone'.
'Mata' is for repetition or addition, while 'tsugi ni' is for order in a series.
In highly formal contexts, words like 'sarani' (furthermore) or specific conjunctions might be preferred over 'mata'.
'Mata ne' is very casual. In formal settings, use 'shitsurei shimasu' or 'sayonara'.
'Mo' is used to add a similar subject or object ('I also will go'). 'Mata' is more for adding actions or clauses.
Tips
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a 'mat' at your front door. Every time you leave, you step on it 'again' (mata). Your friend also steps on it, 'also' (mata) your friend. The mat is your reminder for 'again' and 'also'.
When Native Speakers Use It
Listen for 'Mata ne!' when people say goodbye casually. Also, notice how speakers use 'mata' to add points in a conversation, like 'And also...' or 'Furthermore...'
Cultural Insight
The casual farewell 'Mata ne!' reflects the importance of maintaining connections in Japanese culture, implying a relaxed expectation of future meetings.
Grammar Shortcut
As an adverb, 'mata' usually comes before the verb or phrase it modifies. Think: 'Mata + Action'.
Say It Right
Keep the two 'a' sounds pure and open, like the 'a' in 'father'. Avoid shortening them or making them sound like the 'a' in 'cat'.
Don't Make This Mistake
Don't use the casual 'Mata ne!' with your boss or a new acquaintance. Stick to more formal greetings like 'Shitsurei shimasu'.
Did You Know?
The word 'mata' can be written in hiragana (また), kanji (又), or even katakana (マタ) depending on the context and desired nuance, though hiragana is most common.
Study Smart
Create flashcards with 'Mata' on one side and 'Again' / 'Also' / 'See you later!' on the other. Include example sentences for each meaning.
Use it in Sentences
Actively try to use 'mata' in your own sentences daily. Write them down, say them out loud, and get feedback if possible.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'mat' that you step on 'again' and 'also' put your shoes on. 'Mat-a'.
Visual Association
Picture a clock with hands spinning backwards, indicating 'again', and then two arrows pointing to the same spot, signifying 'also'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try using 'mata' in at least three different sentences today, covering both 'again' and 'also'.
Word Origin
Japanese
Original meaning: Possibly related to concepts of 'stepping', 'division', or 'next'.
Cultural Context
Generally none, but the casualness of 'Mata ne!' should be reserved for informal situations.
The concept of 'again' and 'also' is universal, but the specific Japanese phrases like 'Mata ne!' are culturally specific greetings.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Saying goodbye
- Mata ne!
- Mata ashita!
- Mata raishuu!
Making plans
- Mata aimashou.
- Mata kondo.
- Mata kimasu.
Adding information
- Sore wa ii desu. Mata, kore wa?
- Kono riyuu de, mata ano riyuu de...
Describing repetition
- Mata onaji koto o shita.
- Mata ganbarou.
Conversation Starters
"Mata ashita ne!"
"Kono ato, mata doko ka ikimasu ka?"
"Kono hanashi, mata kikasete kudasai."
"Mata to nai kikai da to omoimasu. Anata wa?"
"Kyou wa tanoshikatta desu. Mata kondo o-cha demo nomimashou!"
Journal Prompts
Describe something you did 'mata' (again) today and why.
Write about a 'mata to nai' (unprecedented) opportunity you had or wish for.
Imagine you are saying goodbye to a friend you will see 'mata ashita' (tomorrow). Write your farewell.
Think of a time you had to start something 'mata' (again) after failing. What did you learn?
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questions'Mata' often means 'again' (repetition) or 'also'/'furthermore' when connecting clauses or actions. 'Mo' usually means 'also' or 'too' when adding a similar item or person (e.g., 'Watashi mo ikimasu' - 'I will go too').
'Mata ne!' is a very casual farewell. It's best used with friends, family, or people you know well. Avoid it in formal situations or with superiors.
Yes, the conjunction 'mata wa' (または) means 'or'. For example, 'Kohi mata wa tea?' (Coffee or tea?).
'Mata ashita' specifically means 'See you tomorrow'. 'Mata raishuu' means 'See you next week'. Use the one that matches when you expect to meet again.
No, 'mata' itself is neutral. It indicates repetition or addition. However, it can be used in sentences describing negative outcomes happening again, like 'Mata dame deshita' (It failed again).
You can say 'Mou ikkai' (もう一回) or 'Mou ichido' (もう一度) for 'one more time'. While 'mata' means 'again', these phrases are more specific for requesting a single repetition.
'Mata to nai' (またとない) is an expression meaning 'unprecedented', 'rare', or 'one-of-a-kind'. It emphasizes that something is unique and unlikely to happen again.
Yes, 'mata' can be used in formal writing, especially as the conjunction 'mata wa' (or). However, for 'furthermore' or 'also', more formal adverbs like 'sarani' (さらに) might be preferred in very academic or official documents.
Test Yourself
A: Sayonara! B: ____ ne!
'Mata ne!' is a common casual farewell, meaning 'See you later!'
What does 'Mata ashita' mean?
'Ashita' means tomorrow, so 'Mata ashita' means 'See you tomorrow'.
The word 'mata' can mean 'also' or 'furthermore'.
Besides meaning 'again', 'mata' can be used to add information, similar to 'also'.
Word
Meaning
Matches sentences demonstrating different uses of 'mata'.
The correct sentence is 'Mata kikasete kudasai' (Please let me hear again).
I want to eat sushi ____.
The context suggests repetition, so 'again' fits best.
Which phrase means 'or'?
'Mata wa' is used as a conjunction meaning 'or'.
'Mata' can only mean 'again'.
'Mata' also means 'also', 'furthermore', or is part of phrases like 'or'.
The sentence 'Kono atarashii shikata ni mata narimashita' means 'We have again entered this new way.'
She likes dogs, ____ she likes cats too.
'Furthermore' fits the meaning of adding another similar point, like 'mata'.
Which phrase best translates 'Mata to nai kikai'?
'Mata to nai' means rare or unprecedented.
In formal Japanese, 'mata' is always the most appropriate word for 'furthermore'.
While 'mata' can mean 'furthermore', more formal alternatives like 'sarani' or 'sono ue ni' are often preferred in academic or highly formal writing.
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Summary
Mastering 'mata' unlocks natural ways to express repetition, addition, and continuation in Japanese.
- Mata (また) is a versatile Japanese adverb.
- Main meanings: 'again' (repetition) and 'also'/'furthermore' (addition).
- Common in casual farewells like 'Mata ne!' and 'Mata ashita!'.
- Can function as a conjunction 'mata wa' (or).
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a 'mat' at your front door. Every time you leave, you step on it 'again' (mata). Your friend also steps on it, 'also' (mata) your friend. The mat is your reminder for 'again' and 'also'.
When Native Speakers Use It
Listen for 'Mata ne!' when people say goodbye casually. Also, notice how speakers use 'mata' to add points in a conversation, like 'And also...' or 'Furthermore...'
Cultural Insight
The casual farewell 'Mata ne!' reflects the importance of maintaining connections in Japanese culture, implying a relaxed expectation of future meetings.
Grammar Shortcut
As an adverb, 'mata' usually comes before the verb or phrase it modifies. Think: 'Mata + Action'.
Example
また明日会いましょう。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More home words
上に
B1Above; on top of.
不在
B1Absent; not present. Not in a particular place.
手頃な
B1Affordable, reasonable (price).
お先に
B1Excuse me for going first; said when leaving before others.
仲介
B1Mediation, agency (e.g., real estate).
あっ
B1Ah!; an exclamation of sudden realization or surprise.
エアコン
A2air conditioner
冷暖房
B1Air conditioning and heating system.
風通しの良い
B1Well-ventilated; airy.
～可
A2Suffix meaning "permitted" or "allowed".
