今度
This word means 'next time' or 'this time' and is used a lot in everyday conversation.
Explanation at your level:
Hi there! Let's learn a new Japanese word: 今度 (kondo). It's like saying 'next time' or 'this time' in English. Imagine you are playing with a friend and you say, 'Let's play again next time!' In Japanese, you would use 今度 for 'next time'. Or, if you just saw a really cool movie, you can say 'I saw a cool movie this time.' So, 今度 helps us talk about things happening soon or things that just happened. It's a very useful word for making plans or talking about recent events. Keep practicing saying it!
Hello! Today we're looking at 今度 (kondo). This word is super common and means 'next time' or 'this time'. When you want to make a plan to meet someone again, you can say 'Let's meet next time.' In Japanese, that's '今度、会いましょう' (Kondo, aimashou). It's friendly and easy to use. It can also mean 'this time' or 'recently'. For example, if you went shopping and found a nice shirt, you could say 'I found a nice shirt this time.' So, 今度 is great for talking about both future plans and recent events. Try using it when you talk about what you did yesterday or what you plan to do tomorrow!
Let's explore 今度 (kondo), a versatile Japanese word that translates to 'next time' or 'this time'. Its meaning depends heavily on the context. When used for future events, it suggests an upcoming occasion, often in the near future. For instance, '今度の週末に旅行に行きます' (Kondo no shuumatsu ni ryokou ni ikimasu) means 'I'm going on a trip this coming weekend.'
Conversely, when referring to past events, it signifies 'this time' or 'recently'. An example would be, '今度の会議はうまくいった' (Kondo no kaigi wa umaku itta), meaning 'The meeting this time went well.' Mastering 今度 will significantly enhance your ability to discuss plans and recount recent experiences naturally in Japanese. Pay attention to the surrounding words and the overall conversation flow to grasp its precise meaning.
The Japanese word 今度 (kondo) is a highly functional term with dual meanings: 'next time'/'another time' (future) and 'this time'/'recently' (past). Its ambiguity, while initially challenging, is resolved through context. When planning, '今度' implies a near-future event, often used in casual to semi-formal settings. For example, '今度、一緒に食事でもどうですか？' (Kondo, issho ni shokuji demo dou desu ka?) translates to 'How about we have a meal together sometime soon?'
In retrospective contexts, '今度' refers to the current or most recent instance. Consider '今度のテストは難しかった' (Kondo no tesuto wa muzukashikatta), meaning 'The test this time was difficult.' Understanding this duality is crucial for nuanced communication. You might also encounter phrases like '今度こそ' (kondo koso), emphasizing determination: 'This time, I'll definitely succeed!' This highlights the word's adaptability in expressing intent and reflection.
今度 (kondo) is a pivotal Japanese temporal expression, functioning as both a noun and an adverbial marker. Its semantic range spans from near-future ('next time', 'another occasion') to recent past ('this time', 'recently'). The precise interpretation hinges on grammatical cues and situational context. For instance, when followed by a future verb tense or context, it clearly denotes a future event: '今度、新しいプロジェクトを開始します' (Kondo, atarashii purojekuto o kaishi shimasu) - 'We will launch a new project next time / in the near future.'
Conversely, its retrospective usage is evident when linked to past events or when the context implies completion. '今度の展示会は大盛況でした' (Kondo no tenjikai wa oo-seikyou deshita) - 'The exhibition this time was a great success.' Advanced learners will also recognize its use in set phrases like 'この度' (kono tabi), a more formal register for 'on this occasion', often found in congratulatory messages or official announcements. Mastering 今度 involves appreciating its contextual fluidity and recognizing its subtle role in modulating temporal reference.
The temporal marker 今度 (kondo) exemplifies the nuanced expression of time in Japanese. Its core denotation oscillates between a proximate future ('next time', 'another occasion') and a recent past ('this time', 'recently'). This polysemy is not arbitrary but deeply embedded in Japanese temporal cognition, where the present moment serves as a pivot. The phrase '今度の〜' (kondo no ~) functions adjectivally, specifying a particular instance, be it future or past. For example, '今度の休みはどこへ行こうか' (Kondo no yasumi wa doko e ikou ka) - 'Where shall we go during the upcoming holiday?' contrasts with '今度の出来事は忘れられない' (Kondo no dekigoto wa wasurerarenai) - 'The event this time is unforgettable.'
Historically, the fusion of 今 ('now') and 度 ('degree', 'occurrence') reflects a conceptualization of time as discrete instances. Its usage in formal contexts often shifts to 'この度' (kono tabi), signifying a heightened sense of occasion. Furthermore, idiomatic extensions like '今度こそ' (kondo koso) imbue the word with pragmatic force, conveying resolute intent. A deep understanding requires appreciating its etymological roots, diachronic evolution, and sociolinguistic variations in register and pragmatic function.
Word in 30 Seconds
- 今度 (kondo) means 'next time' or 'this time'.
- Its meaning depends heavily on context (future vs. recent past).
- Commonly used in everyday conversations for planning and recounting events.
- Can be modified with の (no) or combined with こそ (koso) for emphasis.
Hey there! Let's dive into the super useful Japanese word 今度 (kondo). It's one of those words you'll hear and want to use all the time because it pops up in so many different situations. Think of it as your go-to for talking about things that are happening soon, or things that just happened!
Basically, 今度 can mean 'next time' or 'another time' when you're looking forward to something. For example, you might say, 'Let's go to the movies 今度!' which means 'Let's go to the movies next time!' It's a friendly way to make plans. But wait, there's more! It can also mean 'this time' or 'recently'. So, if you just finished a delicious meal, you could say, '今度のご飯は美味しかった' (Kondo no gohan wa oishikatta), meaning 'The meal this time was delicious.' See how it can swing both ways? Keep an eye on the surrounding words and the situation to figure out which meaning is intended!
The word 今度 (kondo) has a fascinating history that stretches back centuries in Japan. It's formed from two kanji characters: 今 (ima), meaning 'now' or 'this', and 度 (do), which in this context acts as a counter for occurrences or times. So, literally, it's like saying 'this occurrence' or 'this time'.
Its usage evolved over time. Initially, it might have been more strictly tied to 'this moment' or 'this instance'. However, as language developed, 今度 broadened its scope to encompass both the immediate present/recent past and the near future. This flexibility is part of what makes it so versatile today. You can find similar concepts in other East Asian languages, where combining a character for 'now' or 'this' with a character for 'time' or 'degree' is a common way to express temporal ideas. It’s a testament to how languages build meaning through combining fundamental concepts!
今度 (kondo) is a real workhorse in Japanese, used across various situations from casual chats with friends to more formal announcements. Its chameleon-like ability to mean 'next time' or 'this time' makes it incredibly handy. When talking about the future, it often implies a near future, not something way off in the distant future.
You'll often hear it paired with other words. For example, '今度の日曜日' (kondo no nichiyoubi) means 'this coming Sunday'. If you're talking about something that just happened, you might say '今度の旅行' (kondo no ryokou) meaning 'this recent trip'. It's also common to use it with verbs like '行く' (iku - to go) or '来る' (kuru - to come) to make plans: '今度、遊びに行きます' (Kondo, asobi ni ikimasu) – 'I'll come visit next time.' The formality level is generally neutral, making it suitable for most everyday conversations. Just remember, context is key!
While 今度 (kondo) itself isn't typically part of complex idioms, it features in many common phrases that add nuance to conversations. These expressions leverage its core meaning of 'this time' or 'next time' to convey specific ideas.
Here are a few ways you'll see it used:
- 今度こそ (kondo koso): This means 'this time for sure' or 'this time, I really will'. It expresses a strong determination to succeed or achieve something this particular time, perhaps after previous failures. Example: '今度こそ、試験に合格するぞ！' (Kondo koso, shiken ni goukaku suru zo!) - 'This time for sure, I'll pass the exam!'
- この度 (kono tabi): This is a more formal way of saying 'this time' or 'on this occasion'. You'll often see it in formal announcements or congratulations. Example: 'この度はご結婚おめでとうございます。' (Kono tabi wa gokekkon omedetou gozaimasu.) - 'Congratulations on your marriage on this occasion.'
- 度々 (tabitabi): While not directly using 今度, this adverb means 'frequently' or 'repeatedly', and its kanji 度 (do) is related to the 'time' or 'occurrence' aspect found in 今度. It implies many instances, similar to how 今度 refers to a specific instance. Example: '度々すみません。' (Tabitabi sumimasen.) - 'Sorry to bother you so many times.'
These expressions show how the core idea of 'time' or 'occurrence' in 今度 can be expanded upon!
Let's break down the pronunciation and grammar of 今度 (kondo). It's a straightforward word, making it easy to get right!
Pronunciation: The word is pronounced 'kon-do'. The 'n' sound is like the English 'n', and the 'do' is like the English word 'doe'. There are no tricky sounds here! In the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), it's typically transcribed as /kon.do/. For British English speakers, it sounds very similar to the American English pronunciation. There aren't really any common pronunciation errors for this word among learners, as it's quite phonetic.
Grammar: As a noun, 今度 often functions as an adverbial phrase when it appears at the beginning of a sentence or before a verb, indicating *when* something happens. It can also be modified by particles like 'の' (no) to make it an adjective, as in '今度の〜' (kondo no ~), meaning 'this ~' or 'next ~'. For example, '今度の本' (kondo no hon) means 'this book' (referring to a book recently acquired or discussed) or 'next book' (referring to a book to be read later). It doesn't typically take plural forms or require articles like 'a' or 'the' in English.
Fun Fact
The character 度 (do) originally depicted a person stepping over a line, signifying crossing or passing over, which evolved to mean 'degree' or 'occurrence/time'.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'KON-doh', with the 'o' sound similar to the 'o' in 'go'.
Sounds like 'KON-doh', similar to British pronunciation, perhaps with a slightly more distinct 'o' sound.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing 'n' too strongly as 'ng'.
- Making the final 'o' sound too short or unclear.
- Confusing the stress pattern with other words.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy due to common usage, but dual meaning requires attention.
Easy to use in basic sentences, requires practice for nuance.
Commonly used, easy to incorporate into conversation.
High frequency makes it easy to pick out.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using の (no) to connect nouns
今度 + の + 週末 (kondo no shuumatsu)
Verb conjugation (plain form for future)
今度 + 行く (kondo iku)
Using particles like は (wa) and こそ (koso)
今度 + は + 頑張る (kondo wa ganbaru)
Examples by Level
今度、会いましょう。
Next time, let's meet.
今度 (kondo) means 'next time'.
今度、公園に行きます。
Next time, I will go to the park.
今度 (kondo) indicates a future event.
今度のご飯は美味しいです。
This time's meal is delicious.
今度 (kondo) can mean 'this time'.
また今度、遊ぼうね。
Let's play again next time, okay?
遊ぼう (asobou) is the volitional form of 'to play'.
今度、本を買います。
Next time, I will buy a book.
買います (kaimasu) is the polite form of 'to buy'.
今度、映画を見ました。
This time, I watched a movie.
見ました (mimashita) is the past tense of 'to see/watch'.
今度の日曜日、空いていますか？
Are you free this coming Sunday?
日曜日 (nichiyoubi) means 'Sunday'.
今度、先生に聞きます。
Next time, I will ask the teacher.
聞きます (kikimasu) means 'to ask/listen'.
今度、友達と映画に行く予定です。
Next time, I plan to go to the movies with a friend.
この度、新しい仕事を始めました。
Recently, I started a new job.
今度、美味しいレストランを教えてください。
Please tell me a delicious restaurant next time.
今度の週末は、家でゆっくり過ごします。
This coming weekend, I will relax at home.
今度、彼に会った時、伝えます。
When I meet him next time, I will tell him.
今度の旅行はとても楽しかったです。
The trip this time was very enjoyable.
今度、日本語の勉強を頑張ります。
Next time, I will study Japanese hard.
今度、お土産を買ってきますね。
I'll buy a souvenir next time, okay?
今度、一緒に食事でもいかがですか？
How about having a meal together sometime soon?
この度はお祝いの品をお送りいただき、誠にありがとうございます。
Thank you very much for sending the celebratory gift on this occasion.
今度の会議では、新しい提案をしたいと考えています。
In the upcoming meeting, I am thinking of making a new proposal.
今度の週末は天気が良さそうなので、ハイキングに行く予定です。
The weather looks good for this coming weekend, so I plan to go hiking.
前回は残念でしたが、今度こそ成功させたいです。
Last time was unfortunate, but I want to succeed this time for sure.
今度の彼のスピーチは、とても感動的でした。
His speech this time was very moving.
今度、改めてご連絡させていただきます。
I will contact you again at another time.
今度のイベントは、予想以上の盛り上がりを見せました。
The event this time showed more excitement than expected.
今度、貴社と共同で事業を展開できればと考えております。
We are considering developing a business jointly with your company in the near future.
この度、長年の功績が認められ、栄誉ある賞を受賞いたしました。
On this occasion, my long-standing achievements were recognized, and I received a prestigious award.
今度の選挙では、若者の投票率向上策が議論の的となっています。
In the upcoming election, measures to increase youth voter turnout are becoming a topic of discussion.
今度の台風は勢力が強く、警戒が必要です。
The typhoon this time is powerful, and caution is necessary.
今度こそは、この難局を乗り越えてみせます。
This time, I will definitely overcome this difficult situation.
今度の彼の発言は、これまでの態度とは一線を画すものでした。
His statement this time was markedly different from his previous stance.
今度、改めて詳細な資料をお送りいたします。
I will send detailed materials again at another time.
今度の企画は、斬新なアイデアが盛り込まれており、成功が期待されます。
This upcoming project incorporates innovative ideas and is expected to be successful.
今度、弊社が開発した新技術について、ご紹介させていただく機会を頂戴できれば幸いです。
We would be honored if we could have the opportunity to introduce the new technology developed by our company at another time.
この度、長年にわたる研究が実を結び、画期的な発見に至りましたことをご報告申し上げます。
I am pleased to report that after many years of research, we have reached a groundbreaking discovery on this occasion.
今度の国会では、経済再生に向けた包括的な法案が提出される見込みです。
In the upcoming session of the Diet, a comprehensive bill aimed at economic revitalization is expected to be submitted.
今度の災害対応においては、迅速かつ的確な情報伝達が不可欠であることを痛感いたしました。
In responding to the disaster this time, we keenly felt the necessity of prompt and accurate information dissemination.
今度こそは、過去の失敗を糧として、より強固な基盤を築き上げたいと存じます。
This time, drawing lessons from past failures, I intend to build a more robust foundation.
今度の彼の芸術作品は、従来の枠にとらわれない自由な発想が際立っていました。
His artistic works this time were distinguished by their free expression, unbound by conventional frameworks.
今度、改めて貴殿のご都合をお伺いし、日程を調整させていただきたく存じます。
At another time, I would like to inquire about your convenience again and adjust the schedule.
今度の文化交流イベントは、両国の相互理解を深める上で極めて重要な意義を持つものと確信しております。
I am convinced that this cultural exchange event holds extremely significant importance in deepening mutual understanding between both countries.
今度、弊社が推進しておりますサステナビリティ戦略の進捗状況につきまして、詳細なご報告を差し上げるべく、お時間を頂戴できればと存じます。
We would appreciate it if you could grant us some time at another occasion to provide a detailed report on the progress of our company's sustainability strategy.
この度、長年にわたる地域社会への貢献が評価され、栄誉ある地域貢献賞を拝受いたしましたことは、身に余る光栄に存じます。
It is an overwhelming honor that my long-standing contributions to the local community have been recognized on this occasion, leading me to receive the prestigious Community Contribution Award.
今度の立法会においては、デジタル化社会への移行に伴う法的課題を網羅的に検討し、未来志向の法整備を進めることが喫緊の責務であります。
In the upcoming legislative session, it is an urgent duty to comprehensively examine the legal challenges accompanying the transition to a digital society and advance future-oriented legal frameworks.
今度のパンデミック対応における国際協調のあり方については、過去の教訓を踏まえ、より実効性のあるメカニズム構築に向けた議論が不可欠であると確信しております。
Regarding the nature of international cooperation in responding to the pandemic this time, I am convinced that discussions aimed at building more effective mechanisms, based on past lessons, are indispensable.
今度こそは、我々の世代が、過去の過ちを繰り返すことなく、持続可能な未来への確固たる一歩を刻むべきであると強く訴えたい。
I strongly wish to appeal that, this time, our generation should carve a firm step towards a sustainable future, without repeating the mistakes of the past.
今度の彼の文学作品における表現は、ポストモダニズムの潮流を汲みつつも、独自の詩的言語によって読者の深層心理に訴えかける、極めて独創的なものでした。
The expression in his literary works this time was extremely original, drawing on the currents of postmodernism while appealing to the reader's subconscious through a unique poetic language.
今度、改めて貴殿の深いご見識を賜りたく、ご多忙の折とは存じますが、少々お時間を頂戴できますでしょうか。
At another time, I would like to receive your profound insights, and although I know you are busy, could I possibly have a little of your time?
今度の文化遺産保護に関する国際会議は、地球規模での遺産継承における喫緊の課題を浮き彫りにし、具体的な行動計画策定への道筋を示唆するものでした。
This international conference on cultural heritage protection highlighted the urgent issues in global heritage succession and suggested a path towards formulating concrete action plans.
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"今度こそ (kondo koso)"
This time for sure; This time, I really will.
今度こそは、ダイエットを成功させるぞ！
casual"この度 (kono tabi)"
On this occasion; This time (formal).
この度、昇進いたしました。
formal"度々 (tabitabi)"
Frequently; Repeatedly (related kanji).
度々のご連絡、恐れ入ります。
formal"今度と次回の違い (kondo to jikai no chigai)"
The difference between 'next time' (kondo) and 'next time' (jikai).
今度と次回の違いを理解することが重要です。
academic"今度ばかりは (kondo bakari wa)"
This time is different; For once.
今度ばかりは、彼の意見に賛成するしかない。
casual"度外視 (dogai-shi)"
Disregarding; Ignoring (uses 度, related to occurrence/time).
彼は周りの意見を度外視して行動した。
formalEasily Confused
Both mean 'next time'.
次回 is more strictly 'the next occurrence in a series' and usually refers to the future. 今度 is more flexible, meaning 'next time' (often near future) or 'this time' (recent past).
会議は次回（jikai）です。(The meeting is next time.) vs. 今度の会議は重要だ。(This upcoming meeting is important.)
Similar structure (今 + 回) and refers to 'this time'.
今回 specifically means 'this time' (referring to the current instance or event). 今度 can mean 'this time' but also 'next time'.
今回（konkai）は成功した。(This time, I succeeded.) vs. 今度（kondo）は成功した。(This time, I succeeded.) OR 今度（kondo）は成功するぞ！(I will succeed next time!)
Both can refer to recent past events.
最近 means 'recently' or 'lately' and covers a broader recent period. 今度, when referring to the past, usually means 'this particular time' or 'just now'.
最近（saikin）忙しいです。(I've been busy recently.) vs. 今度（kondo）の休みは取れなかった。(I couldn't take off this last holiday.)
Both can refer to past times.
以前 means 'before' or 'in the past', referring to a time prior to the present or a specific reference point, often implying a longer time ago than 今度.
以前（izen）はここに住んでいました。(I lived here before.) vs. 今度（kondo）来た時、家が新しくなっていた。(When I came this time, the house had been renovated.)
Sentence Patterns
今度 + の + Noun
今度の週末は、友人と旅行に行きます。
今度 + Verb (plain form / polite form)
今度、映画を見に行こう。(Let's go see a movie next time.)
今度 + は / こそ + Verb/Adjective
今度はちゃんと勉強します。(I will study properly this time.)
Noun + は + 今度 + Verb
この件は今度、改めてお話しします。(I will talk about this matter again at another time.)
この度 + は + Noun Phrase (formal)
この度は、ご結婚誠におめでとうございます。(Congratulations on your marriage on this occasion.)
Word Family
Nouns
Related
How to Use It
9/10
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
今度 usually implies a near future. Using it for something years away can be confusing.
While related, they denote different temporal scopes.
今度 implies recency; older past events require different wording.
今度 is generally neutral to casual; この度 is the formal equivalent for 'on this occasion'.
The dual meaning requires careful attention to context.
Tips
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a 'CONE' (KON) that you 'DO' (DO) something with 'next time'. Or, picture a calendar where 'This Time' and 'Next Time' are both highlighted with the word 今度.
When Native Speakers Use It
Listen for 今度 when people make plans ('Let's go out 今度!'), discuss recent events ('今度の旅行は最高だった!'), or express determination ('今度こそ勝つぞ!').
Cultural Insight
Japanese culture often emphasizes politeness and avoiding direct refusal. Saying '今度' (kondo) can sometimes be a gentle way to postpone something without a firm commitment, though context usually clarifies intent.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember: 今度 + の + Noun = 'This/Next [Noun]'. It's a very common and useful pattern!
Say It Right
Focus on a clear 'kon-do'. Don't rush the 'o' sound at the end; make it distinct like the 'o' in 'go'.
Don't Make This Mistake
Avoid assuming 今度 *always* means 'next time'. Pay close attention to verb tenses and context to distinguish between future and recent past meanings.
Did You Know?
The kanji 度 (do) in 今度 originally related to 'crossing' or 'passing', suggesting a transition or a specific point in time.
Study Smart
Create flashcards with sentences using 今度 for both future and past meanings. Test yourself by guessing the meaning before translating.
Register Nuance
While 今度 is generally neutral, using この度 (kono tabi) elevates the formality significantly, especially for congratulations or official announcements.
Contextual Recall
When you learn a new word, try to immediately think of a situation where you'd use 今度 in relation to it. For example, learning 'party' (パーティー), think '今度パーティーに行きます' (I'll go to the party next time).
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'CON'quering 'DO'ing something 'next time' or 'this time'. Or, 'CON'necting 'DO'ing it 'now' vs 'next'.
Visual Association
Imagine a calendar with '今度' written on it, pointing to either the next available date or a date that just passed.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 今度 in a sentence about your plans for the upcoming weekend, and another sentence about something you did yesterday.
Word Origin
Japanese
Original meaning: This occurrence; this time.
Cultural Context
No particular cultural sensitivity associated with this word itself.
In English, we often use phrases like 'next time', 'this time', 'recently', or 'sometime soon' which cover the range of meanings for kondo.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Making plans with friends
- 今度、ご飯でもどう？ (Kondo, gohan demo dou? - How about grabbing a meal sometime?)
- 今度、遊びに行ってもいい？ (Kondo, asobi ni itte mo ii? - Can I come over to hang out next time?)
- 今度の日曜日は空いてる？ (Kondo no nichiyoubi wa aiteru? - Are you free this coming Sunday?)
Talking about recent events
- 今度の旅行は最高だった！ (Kondo no ryokou wa saikou datta! - The trip this time was the best!)
- 今度の映画、見た？ (Kondo no eiga, mita? - Did you see the movie this time?)
- 今度の会議、うまくいったよ。(Kondo no kaigi, umaku itta yo. - The meeting this time went well.)
Expressing determination
- 今度こそ、絶対成功させる！ (Kondo koso, zettai seikou saseru! - This time for sure, I'll definitely make it a success!)
- 今度ばかりは許さない。(Kondo bakari wa yurusanai. - I won't forgive you this time.)
Formal announcements/congratulations
- この度、ご結婚おめでとうございます。(Kono tabi, gokekkon omedetou gozaimasu. - Congratulations on your marriage on this occasion.)
- この度、受賞いたしました。(Kono tabi, jushou itashimashita. - I received an award on this occasion.)
Conversation Starters
"今度、一緒にどこか行きませんか？"
"今度の週末は何をする予定ですか？"
"最近、何か面白いことありましたか？ (Implies 'this time' or 'recently')"
"今度のプロジェクトについて、どう思いますか？"
"今度こそ、目標を達成したいです。"
Journal Prompts
Write about your plans for the next holiday using 今度.
Describe a recent event or experience using 今度.
Write a short story where a character uses 今度こそ to express determination.
Reflect on a time you used 今度 and how the context determined its meaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsBoth mean 'next time', but 今度 often implies a nearer future and can also mean 'this time' (recent past). 次回 is more strictly 'the next time' something occurs in a sequence.
Generally, no. For distant future events, it's better to use specific time references like 来年 (next year), 再来年 (the year after next), or specific dates.
It's quite versatile and can be used in both neutral and casual situations. For very formal occasions, especially when referring to 'this occasion', この度 (kono tabi) is preferred.
Context is key! If the surrounding verbs are in the past tense or the situation clearly refers to something that just happened, it means 'this time' or 'recently'. If it refers to future plans or verbs are in future/present tense, it means 'next time'.
It means 'this time for sure' or 'this time, I really will'. It expresses strong determination to succeed in the current attempt, often after previous failures.
Yes, when followed by の (no), like 今度の日曜日 (kondo no nichiyoubi - this coming Sunday) or 今度の試験 (kondo no shiken - this upcoming exam/the recent exam).
The pronunciation is quite standard across Japan. The IPA is /kon.do/. Regional accents might slightly alter vowel sounds, but it remains recognizable.
Common phrases include '今度の日曜日' (this coming Sunday), '今度会う時' (when we meet next time), and '今度こそ' (this time for sure).
Test Yourself
明日のパーティーには行けません。___ 行きましょう。
The sentence implies a future plan, so 'next time' (今度) is appropriate.
「___ の旅行は楽しかったですか？」 means 'Was the trip ___ enjoyable?'
今度 (kondo) can mean 'this time' when referring to a recent past event.
今度 (kondo) can only mean 'next time'.
今度 can also mean 'this time' or 'recently', depending on the context.
Word
Meaning
Matches sentences using kondo with their English translations, highlighting its dual meaning.
The correct order forms the sentence '今度また約束しましょう' (Let's make a promise again next time).
___ お祝いのメッセージをありがとうございました。
この度 (kono tabi) is the formal way to say 'on this occasion', suitable for thanking someone for congratulations.
Which phrase best conveys strong determination for the current attempt?
今度こそ (kondo koso) specifically means 'this time for sure', emphasizing the current attempt after potential past failures.
来週の会議について、___ 詳しくお話しします。
The sentence refers to a future event (next week's meeting), so 今度 (next time/upcoming) is the most appropriate choice.
The phrase '先般' (senpan) is a synonym for '今度' (kondo) when referring to future events.
先般 refers to a recent past event, while 今度 can refer to the near future or recent past. They are not direct synonyms in all contexts.
___ の週末は、友達と遊ぶ予定です。
The sentence talks about plans for the weekend, implying the upcoming weekend, so 今度 (kondo) is the correct word.
Score: /10
Summary
Mastering 今度 unlocks natural conversation about both future plans and recent happenings in Japanese.
- 今度 (kondo) means 'next time' or 'this time'.
- Its meaning depends heavily on context (future vs. recent past).
- Commonly used in everyday conversations for planning and recounting events.
- Can be modified with の (no) or combined with こそ (koso) for emphasis.
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a 'CONE' (KON) that you 'DO' (DO) something with 'next time'. Or, picture a calendar where 'This Time' and 'Next Time' are both highlighted with the word 今度.
When Native Speakers Use It
Listen for 今度 when people make plans ('Let's go out 今度!'), discuss recent events ('今度の旅行は最高だった!'), or express determination ('今度こそ勝つぞ!').
Cultural Insight
Japanese culture often emphasizes politeness and avoiding direct refusal. Saying '今度' (kondo) can sometimes be a gentle way to postpone something without a firm commitment, though context usually clarifies intent.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember: 今度 + の + Noun = 'This/Next [Noun]'. It's a very common and useful pattern!
Example
今度の日曜日に会いましょう。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Phrases
More daily_life words
じゅうしょ
A2The particulars of the place where someone lives.
住所
A2address, residence
～後
A2after
目覚まし
B1Alarm clock. A clock that makes a noise to wake someone up.
目覚まし時計
B1An alarm clock.
もう少し
B1A little more.
ひとりで
A2Alone.
~のに
B1Even though; despite (particle/conjunction).
ごぜん
A2Morning (a.m.).
煩い
B1Noisy; annoying.
