At the A1 level, you should focus on the most common and basic meaning of this word, which is next time. When you are talking to your friends or classmates and you want to suggest doing something in the future, you use this word. It is a very helpful word when you cannot decide on a specific day or time to meet. For example, if someone asks you to play a game, but you have to study, you can say I will play next time. It is easy to use because you usually just put it at the beginning of your sentence. You do not need to worry about complicated grammar rules right now. Just remember that it points to a future opportunity. It is a friendly and polite way to keep a conversation positive even if you have to say no to an invitation right now. Practice using it with simple verbs like go, eat, and play.
At the A2 level, you need to expand your understanding to include the second major meaning: this time or recently. This is where the word gets a little tricky, but it is essential for everyday conversation. You must start paying close attention to the end of the sentence. If the verb is in the past tense, the word no longer means next time; it means the time that just happened. For example, if you say the test was hard, and you use this word, you are talking about the test you just finished. You also need to learn how to use it with the particle no to describe nouns, like next time's trip or this time's homework. This dual meaning is very common in Japanese, and mastering it will help you understand native speakers much better. Start practicing by writing sentences about things you just did and things you want to do in the future using the same word.
At the B1 level, the focus shifts to the cultural and social nuances of the word. You should now understand that this word is frequently used as a tool for social harmony. It is the classic polite refusal. When a Japanese person says let's go drinking next time, you must realize that this is often just a friendly way to say goodbye, not a concrete invitation. You need to develop the social awareness to read the context and determine if the speaker genuinely wants to make plans or is just being polite. Additionally, you should be comfortable using the particle wa with this word to create contrast. For example, I failed before, but this time (using wa) I will pass. This shows a higher level of grammatical control and expressive ability. You should also start comparing it with similar words like konkai to understand when to be specific and when to be vague.
At the B2 level, you are expected to have complete mastery over the temporal fluidity of this word. You should seamlessly transition between its future and past meanings without hesitation. You must also clearly distinguish it from tsugi (next in sequence) and never make the mistake of using it for sequential items like the next train. At this level, you should be using it naturally in complex sentences, pairing it with volitional forms, conditionals, and expressions of desire. You should also be aware of its usage in semi-formal contexts, such as the workplace, where it can refer to recent project outcomes or future business strategies. Your listening comprehension should be sharp enough to instantly decode the intended meaning based on the speaker's tone, the relationship, and the verb tense. You are no longer just translating the word; you are using it as a native speaker would to navigate complex social interactions.
At the C1 level, your understanding of this word should be nuanced and deeply integrated into your overall fluency. You should be highly aware of register and formality. While you use this word effortlessly in daily life, you must know exactly when to abandon it in favor of highly formal alternatives like konotabi in business emails or official apologies. You should understand the subtle psychological distance implied by the word compared to more immediate terms. You can use it to intentionally create vagueness or to soften statements in delicate negotiations. Your grasp of the word extends beyond basic definitions to an intuitive feel for its rhythm in spoken Japanese. You can analyze why a speaker chose this word over a synonym in a specific context, recognizing the subtle shades of meaning related to intention, expectation, and social obligation.
At the C2 level, your comprehension of this word is near-native, encompassing its etymological roots and its psychological role in Japanese communication. You understand how the kanji combination (now + degree/time) philosophically allows the word to bridge the immediate past and the near future, reflecting a cultural perception of time that is less rigid and more focused on the flow of events. You can engage in high-level discussions about linguistics and sociology, explaining how this word facilitates the concept of wa (harmony) by providing a socially acceptable escape route in interpersonal dynamics. You recognize its use in classical literature or older texts and how its usage has evolved. You never make errors regarding its scope, perfectly isolating it from sequential markers, and you wield it with absolute precision to convey exact degrees of enthusiasm, hesitation, or polite detachment in any conceivable social or professional scenario.

今度 em 30 segundos

  • Means next time for future events.
  • Means this time for recent past events.
  • Often used for polite social refusals.
  • Do not confuse it with sequential 'next'.
The Japanese word kondo is a fascinating temporal noun that encapsulates the fluidity of time in Japanese culture and language. At its core, it translates to next time, another time, or this time, depending entirely on the context in which it is used. This duality often confuses learners, but understanding it unlocks a deeper appreciation for Japanese communication. When used to refer to the future, it indicates an action that will happen at the next available opportunity. However, when used to refer to the past or present, it points to an event that has just occurred or is currently occurring. This flexibility makes it an indispensable tool in daily conversation.
Future Usage
When referring to the future, it means next time or soon. It is often used to make vague plans or polite suggestions without committing to a specific date.

Let us go to the movies 今度.

The kanji characters that make up this word are 今, meaning now, and 度, meaning degree, time, or occurrence. Together, they literally mean this current occurrence or the occurrence that is adjacent to now. This literal translation helps explain why the word can swing both backward and forward in time. If you are talking about a test you just took, the occurrence adjacent to now is the test you just finished. If you are talking about a future meeting, the occurrence adjacent to now is the next meeting.
Past Usage
When referring to the past, it means this time or recently. It is used to reflect on an event that just concluded.

The exam 今度 was very difficult.

In social contexts, this word is the king of polite ambiguity. Japanese culture places a high value on harmony and avoiding direct confrontation or rejection. Therefore, instead of saying no to an invitation, a Japanese speaker might say they will do it next time. This allows both parties to save face. The inviter is not directly rejected, and the invitee does not have to commit.
Social Harmony
The concept of wa (harmony) dictates that direct refusals are harsh. Using this word softens the blow of a rejection.

I am busy today, so maybe 今度.

Let us grab a drink 今度.

I will definitely win 今度.

Understanding these nuances is crucial for mastering Japanese. It is not just about memorizing vocabulary; it is about understanding the cultural mindset that shapes the language. When you hear this word, you must act as a linguistic detective, using context clues like verb tense, social hierarchy, and the nature of the relationship to decode its true meaning. If a close friend uses it, they probably mean it literally. If an acquaintance uses it after you invite them out, it might be a polite brush-off. Navigating this requires practice and exposure to native speakers. Over time, the dual nature of the word will become second nature, and you will find yourself using it just as naturally to navigate complex social interactions, make vague plans, or reflect on recent events with ease and fluency.
Using this word correctly in sentences requires a solid understanding of Japanese grammar, specifically the use of particles. Because it is a temporal noun, it often acts as an adverbial time marker in a sentence. This means it can sometimes be used without any particles at all, simply placed at the beginning of a clause to set the timeframe. However, attaching particles can subtly change the emphasis and nuance of the sentence. The most common particles used with this word are wa, ni, and no.
Using the Wa Particle
Attaching the topic marker wa emphasizes the contrast between this time and previous times. It highlights that the current or next instance will be different.

I failed before, but 今度 I will succeed.

When you use the particle ni, you are pinpointing a specific time for an action to occur. However, because this word is inherently vague, using ni with it can sometimes sound slightly unnatural unless you are contrasting it with another specific time. Usually, it is perfectly fine to drop the ni and just use the word on its own. For example, saying I will go next time does not strictly require a ni.
Using the No Particle
When you want to modify another noun, you must use the possessive particle no. This translates to this time's or next time's.

I am looking forward to 今度 's trip.

Another important grammatical aspect is the verb tense that follows the word. As mentioned in the previous section, the verb tense is the ultimate decoder ring for figuring out if the speaker means next time or this time. If the sentence ends in a past tense verb (like deshita or mashita), the word unequivocally means this time or recently. If the sentence ends in a non-past tense verb (present/future), it usually means next time or soon.
Verb Tense Dependency
The meaning of the word is entirely dependent on the conjugation of the main verb in the sentence.

I bought a new car 今度. (Recently)

I will buy a new car 今度. (Next time)

Please come to my house 今度.

You will also frequently see this word paired with expressions of desire, suggestion, or intention. Phrases ending in volitional forms (let's do), tai (want to do), or kudasai (please do) are natural companions. This is because the word naturally lends itself to discussing future plans, hopes, and invitations. Mastering these sentence patterns will make your Japanese sound incredibly natural and fluent, allowing you to navigate social invitations and temporal descriptions with the ease of a native speaker.
You will encounter this word absolutely everywhere in Japan, from the most casual conversations among friends to formal business emails, and across all forms of media including anime, manga, and news broadcasts. Its versatility makes it one of the most high-frequency words in the Japanese language. In daily life, it is the go-to word for making plans. When you are chatting with friends and someone suggests an activity, but the group cannot decide on a date, someone will inevitably use this word to table the discussion for later. It is the ultimate placeholder for future fun.
Casual Hangouts
Friends use it constantly to suggest future activities without the pressure of immediate scheduling.

Let us go to karaoke 今度!

In the workplace, the word takes on a slightly more formal tone but remains just as common. You will hear it in meetings when discussing upcoming projects or reviewing recent performance. When a boss says the word followed by a past tense verb, they are usually referring to the most recent quarter, the latest sales report, or a recently completed task. When followed by a future tense, they are setting expectations for the next cycle. It is also heavily used in networking and business socializing.
Business Context
Used to discuss recent results or future strategies in a professional setting.

We will improve our strategy 今度.

Another massive area where you will hear this word is in the realm of polite rejections, as discussed earlier. This is so prevalent that it has become a bit of a cultural trope. The phrase kondo nomimashou (let's drink next time) is infamous among expats in Japan. Many foreigners initially take this literally and wait for an invitation that never comes. Understanding that this phrase is often the Japanese equivalent of a polite goodbye is a major milestone in cultural fluency.
The Polite Brush-off
A standard way to end a conversation or decline an invitation without causing offense.

Thank you for the invite, maybe 今度.

I will show you my photos 今度.

Let us play that game 今度.

You will also hear it in customer service. A shop clerk might say please come again next time as you leave. A train announcement might apologize for a delay and promise better service next time. It is a word that bridges the gap between the present moment and future possibilities, making it an essential part of the rhythmic flow of Japanese daily life. Whether you are watching a dramatic anime confession, reading a corporate memo, or just trying to figure out if your friend actually wants to get coffee, this word will be there, waiting to be interpreted.
One of the most frequent and frustrating mistakes English speakers make when learning this word is confusing it with the word tsugi. In English, we use next for almost everything: the next train, the next person, next week, next time. Because kondo is often translated as next time, learners naturally assume it can be used interchangeably with tsugi. This is a massive error that can lead to significant confusion. Tsugi refers to a sequential order. It means the item or event that comes immediately after the current one in a logical or physical sequence. Kondo, on the other hand, refers to an opportunity or an occurrence in time, without necessarily implying a strict sequence.
The Tsugi Confusion
Never use this word to mean the next train or the next page. It is strictly for occurrences in time, not sequential items.

Incorrect: I will take the 今度 train.

Another common mistake is failing to recognize the past tense usage. Because early textbooks heavily emphasize the next time translation, learners often completely miss the fact that the word can mean this time or recently. When a Japanese speaker says kondo no shiken wa muzukashikatta (the test this time was difficult), a learner might incorrectly hear the test next time was difficult, which makes no logical sense and leads to a breakdown in communication. You must train your brain to listen to the end of the sentence to determine the tense.
Ignoring the Tense
Assuming the word always means the future will cause you to misunderstand sentences describing recent past events.

I went to Tokyo 今度. (Means recently)

A third mistake involves the social nuance. As mentioned, taking a polite kondo nomimashou literally can lead to disappointment. Learners sometimes aggressively follow up on these vague invitations, asking when exactly they will meet, which can make the Japanese speaker uncomfortable. It is important to read the room. If the invitation is vague, leave it vague. If they truly want to meet, they will follow up with a specific date or time.
Taking it Literally
Do not force a schedule when someone uses this word vaguely. It is often a social buffer.

Let us meet 今度 when we are free.

I will bring it 今度.

We can talk about it 今度.

Finally, learners sometimes overuse the particle ni with this word. While kondo ni is not strictly grammatically incorrect in all situations, it is often unnecessary and sounds clunky. Because the word functions well as an adverbial noun on its own, adding ni can make the sentence feel overly rigid. It is usually better to just use the word by itself or with wa if you are making a contrast. Avoiding these common pitfalls will drastically improve the naturalness of your Japanese and prevent awkward misunderstandings.
To truly master this vocabulary, you must understand how it relates to and differs from its synonyms and alternatives. The Japanese language is rich with temporal nouns, each carrying its own specific nuance and appropriate context. The most common alternative you will encounter is konkai. Konkai translates strictly to this time. Unlike our main word, konkai cannot be used to refer to the future. It is firmly rooted in the present occurrence or the immediately past occurrence. If you want to say this time I will win, you can use either word. But if you want to say next time I will win, you can only use kondo.
Konkai vs Kondo
Konkai is strictly this time. It lacks the future next time flexibility of our main vocabulary word.

I will do better 今度.

Another crucial alternative is tsugi, which we discussed in the mistakes section. Tsugi means next in a sequence. If you are waiting in line, the person after you is the tsugi no hito. If you are reading a book, the next page is the tsugi no peeji. You cannot use our main word in these sequential situations. However, when talking about opportunities or events, they can sometimes overlap. Tsugi no kikai (the next opportunity) is very similar to kondo (next time), but tsugi feels more structured and definite, whereas our word feels more casual and fluid.
The Sequential Tsugi
Use tsugi for physical or logical sequences. Use our main word for temporal occurrences and opportunities.

Let us meet 今度 instead of today.

In highly formal or business situations, you will encounter the word konotabi. This is the extremely polite, humble version of this time. You will see it in formal apologies, wedding invitations, or official corporate announcements. For example, konotabi wa makoto ni moushiwake gozaimasen (we sincerely apologize for this time). You would never use our main word in such a highly formal, apologetic context because it lacks the necessary gravity and humility. Konotabi is strictly for major, formal occurrences.
Formal Konotabi
Reserve konotabi for formal emails, official announcements, and deep apologies regarding a current event.

I will visit your office 今度.

We can discuss the details 今度.

I want to try that restaurant 今度.

Finally, there is the word saikin, which means recently. Because our main word can also mean recently when used with past tense verbs, they can sometimes overlap. However, saikin refers to a general period of recent time, whereas our word refers to a specific recent occurrence. If you say I have been tired recently, you use saikin. If you say the test I took recently was hard, you can use our main word. Understanding these subtle boundaries will elevate your vocabulary from basic to advanced.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

Because 'kondo' can mean both the immediate past and the immediate future, it perfectly illustrates the Japanese cultural concept of time as a flowing river where the present moment is deeply connected to what just happened and what is about to happen, rather than a strict timeline.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /ˈkɒndəʊ/
US /ˈkɑndoʊ/
kon-do
Rima com
ondo hondo mondo tondo sondo fondo rondo zondo
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing the 'o's like the English 'o' in 'go' too heavily.
  • Failing to give the 'n' its own beat (mora) in Japanese rhythm.
  • Putting stress on the first syllable instead of keeping the pitch flat.
  • Confusing it with 'kondo' the surname, which has a different pitch accent.
  • Saying 'konda' instead of 'kondo'.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

The kanji are very basic (N5 level) and easy to read.

Escrita 2/5

Simple kanji strokes.

Expressão oral 4/5

Requires understanding the context to use the correct tense.

Audição 5/5

Can be very confusing because you must wait for the verb tense to know the meaning.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

行く 来る する

Aprenda a seguir

今回 次回 前回 最近 この度

Avançado

近々 後日 いずれ そのうち 機を改めて

Gramática essencial

Noun + no + Noun

今度のテスト (This time's test)

Wa particle for contrast

今度は頑張る (I will try hard THIS time)

Verb Tense dictates meaning

行く (Future) vs 行った (Past)

Volitional form for invitations

今度行こう (Let's go next time)

Tai form for desire

今度食べたい (I want to eat it next time)

Exemplos por nível

1

今度、遊びましょう。

Let's play next time.

Used as a simple future time marker.

2

今度、映画に行きます。

I will go to a movie next time.

No particle needed here.

3

今度は勝ちます。

I will win next time.

Wa particle adds emphasis.

4

今度、教えてください。

Please teach me next time.

Used with a request.

5

今度、食べたいです。

I want to eat it next time.

Used with desire (tai).

6

今度、買います。

I will buy it next time.

Simple future intention.

7

今度、来てください。

Please come next time.

Polite invitation.

8

今度、電話します。

I will call you next time.

Future action promise.

1

今度のテストは難しかったです。

This time's test was difficult.

Used with 'no' to modify a noun, past tense verb.

2

今度の週末、暇ですか。

Are you free next weekend?

Modifying 'weekend' with 'no'.

3

今度、京都に行きたいです。

I want to go to Kyoto next time.

Expressing future desire.

4

今度は遅れないでください。

Please do not be late next time.

Negative request for the future.

5

今度の旅行は楽しかったです。

The trip this time was fun.

Past tense makes it mean 'this time'.

6

今度、新しい車を買うつもりです。

I plan to buy a new car next time.

Used with 'tsumori' (plan).

7

今度の会議はいつですか。

When is the next meeting?

Asking about a future scheduled event.

8

今度、一緒にご飯を食べませんか。

Would you like to eat together next time?

Polite invitation.

1

今度こそ絶対に合格してみせます。

This time for sure, I will pass.

'Koso' adds strong emphasis to 'this time'.

2

今度お会いした時に、詳しくお話しします。

I will tell you in detail the next time we meet.

Used in a subordinate clause.

3

今度のプロジェクトは私が担当します。

I will be in charge of the next project.

Professional context.

4

今度ばかりは彼を許せません。

This time, I cannot forgive him.

'Bakari wa' means 'this time especially'.

5

今度の日曜日は都合が悪いです。

Next Sunday is inconvenient for me.

Polite refusal.

6

今度、実家に帰った時に親に相談します。

I will consult my parents next time I go back home.

Conditional future.

7

今度のダイヤ改正で電車の時間が変わります。

The train times will change with the next schedule revision.

Public announcement style.

8

今度こそは失敗しないように気をつけます。

I will be careful not to fail this time.

Expressing determination.

1

今度の人事異動で大阪支社に転勤することになりました。

I have been transferred to the Osaka branch in the recent personnel changes.

Formal business context, past occurrence.

2

今度という今度は、本当に愛想が尽きました。

This time, I have truly run out of patience.

Idiomatic expression for extreme frustration.

3

今度出版される本は、彼の集大成と言えるでしょう。

The book to be published next can be said to be his culmination.

Modifying a passive verb.

4

今度お越しになる際は、ぜひ事前にお知らせください。

Next time you come, please be sure to let us know in advance.

Keigo (honorific) usage.

5

今度の選挙の結果は、今後の経済に大きな影響を与えるだろう。

The results of the recent election will likely have a major impact on the future economy.

News/academic style.

6

今度ばかりは運が悪かったと諦めるしかない。

I have no choice but to give up and say I was unlucky this time.

Expressing resignation.

7

今度の企画案は、前回よりもはるかに優れている。

The proposal this time is far superior to the previous one.

Comparison context.

8

今度こそ、長年の夢を実現させる絶好の機会だ。

This time is the perfect opportunity to realize my long-held dream.

Expressing strong hope.

1

今度の法改正により、我々の業界は甚大な影響を受けることが予想される。

It is anticipated that our industry will be severely impacted by the upcoming legal revision.

Highly formal, predictive statement.

2

今度の一件に関しましては、私どもの不手際であり、深くお詫び申し上げます。

Regarding the recent incident, it was our mishandling, and we deeply apologize.

Formal apology, though 'konotabi' is often preferred here.

3

今度の学会発表に向けて、データの最終確認を急がねばならない。

We must hurry the final confirmation of the data for the upcoming academic conference presentation.

Academic context.

4

今度こそはと意気込んで臨んだものの、結果は無残なものであった。

Although I approached it with the enthusiasm of 'this time for sure', the result was disastrous.

Literary narrative style.

5

今度の首脳会談で、両国間の長年の懸案が解決に向かうことが期待されている。

It is expected that long-standing issues between the two countries will move toward resolution at the upcoming summit.

Journalistic style.

6

今度の新作は、著者の初期の作風への回帰を思わせる秀作である。

The recent new work is a masterpiece that suggests a return to the author's early style.

Review/critique style.

7

今度の措置は、あくまでも暫定的なものであり、抜本的な解決には至っていない。

The recent measures are strictly provisional and have not led to a fundamental solution.

Political/administrative context.

8

今度ばかりは彼の言い逃れも通用しないだろう。

This time, his excuses will probably not work.

Expressing certainty about a consequence.

1

今度の事態の推移を見極めた上で、次なる一手を打つ所存である。

I intend to make the next move after carefully assessing the progression of the current situation.

Highly formal, strategic declaration.

2

今度の騒動の背後には、複雑に絡み合った利権構造が存在していると推測される。

It is presumed that a complexly intertwined structure of vested interests exists behind the recent uproar.

Analytical, investigative style.

3

今度という今度は、己の不甲斐なさに愛想が尽き果てた。

This time of all times, I am completely exhausted by my own worthlessness.

Intense emotional literary expression.

4

今度の法案成立は、長きにわたる市民運動の結実であると評価できる。

The recent passage of the bill can be evaluated as the fruition of a long-standing citizens' movement.

Historical/sociological analysis.

5

今度の発見は、これまでの定説を根底から覆すパラダイムシフトをもたらすだろう。

The recent discovery will likely bring about a paradigm shift that fundamentally overturns established theories.

Advanced scientific context.

6

今度の舞台では、古典の解釈に新たな光を当てる斬新な演出が試みられている。

In the upcoming stage production, a novel direction that sheds new light on the interpretation of the classic is being attempted.

Artistic critique.

7

今度の交渉においては、相手の妥協点をいかに引き出すかが最大の焦点となる。

In the upcoming negotiations, how to draw out the opponent's point of compromise will be the greatest focus.

Diplomatic/high-level business context.

8

今度の惨事から我々が汲み取るべき教訓は、計り知れないほど重い。

The lessons we must draw from the recent disaster are immeasurably heavy.

Philosophical/moral reflection.

Colocações comuns

今度こそ
今度の週末
今度の日曜日
今度会う時
今度のテスト
今度の休み
今度という今度
今度一緒に
今度のこと
今度また

Frases Comuns

今度飲みましょう

— Let's drink next time. Often a polite goodbye.

今日は忙しいので、今度飲みましょう。

今度遊びに行きます

— I will go hang out next time. A friendly promise.

楽しそうですね、今度遊びに行きます。

今度教えてください

— Please teach me next time. A polite request.

そのレシピ、今度教えてください。

今度はいつですか

— When is the next time? Asking for a schedule.

今度の会議はいつですか。

今度こそ絶対に

— This time for sure, absolutely. Strong determination.

今度こそ絶対に勝ちます。

今度の休みに

— On the next day off. Planning an activity.

今度の休みに映画を見に行こう。

今度は私が

— Next time, I will... Offering to do something in return.

今度は私が奢ります。

今度会う日まで

— Until the day we meet next time. A farewell phrase.

今度会う日まで元気でね。

今度の旅行

— The upcoming trip or the recent trip.

今度の旅行はどこに行きますか。

また今度

— Maybe next time. A casual refusal.

今日は無理だから、また今度ね。

Frequentemente confundido com

今度 vs 次 (Tsugi)

Tsugi is for sequential order (the next train). Kondo is for temporal occurrences (next time).

今度 vs 今回 (Konkai)

Konkai strictly means 'this time' and cannot be used for the future. Kondo can be both.

今度 vs 最近 (Saikin)

Saikin means 'recently' as a general period. Kondo means 'recently' as a specific occurrence.

Expressões idiomáticas

"今度という今度"

— This time of all times; this time for sure. Used when patience has run out.

今度という今度は絶対に許さない。

Emotional
"二度あることは三度ある"

— What happens twice will happen thrice. (Related to counting occurrences).

二度あることは三度あるから、今度も気をつけて。

Proverb
"仏の顔も三度まで"

— Even the Buddha's face only lasts until the third time. (Patience has limits).

仏の顔も三度までだ、今度失敗したらクビだ。

Proverb
"三度目の正直"

— Third time's the charm.

今度こそ三度目の正直で合格するぞ。

Proverb
"今度が最後"

— This is the last time. A strict warning.

お金を貸すのは今度が最後だよ。

Warning
"今度ばかりは"

— This time especially; this time unlike other times.

今度ばかりは彼を助けられない。

Emphasis
"今度から"

— From now on; starting next time.

今度からもっと早く来てください。

Instruction
"今度に限り"

— Only for this time. An exception.

今度に限り、特別に許可します。

Formal
"今度の件"

— Regarding the recent matter. Business phrasing.

今度の件につきまして、ご報告いたします。

Business
"今度とも"

— From now on as well. (Usually korekara tomo, but sometimes used).

今度ともよろしくお願いいたします。

Formal

Fácil de confundir

今度 vs

Both translate to 'next' in English.

'Tsugi' implies a physical or logical sequence. 'Kondo' implies a temporal opportunity. You cannot say 'kondo no eki' for the next station.

次の駅 (Next station) vs 今度行く (Go next time).

今度 vs 今回

Both can mean 'this time'.

'Konkai' is strictly the present/immediate past occurrence. It cannot refer to the future. 'Kondo' is flexible.

今回のテスト (This test) vs 今度遊ぼう (Let's play next time).

今度 vs この度

Similar kanji and meaning.

'Konotabi' is the highly formal version of 'this time', used in official apologies or announcements. 'Kondo' is for daily use.

この度は申し訳ありません (Formal apology).

今度 vs 最近

Both can refer to the recent past.

'Saikin' is a span of time leading up to now. 'Kondo' is a specific point in the recent past.

最近忙しい (Busy recently) vs 今度買った車 (The car I bought recently).

今度 vs いつか

Both refer to future plans.

'Itsuka' means 'sometime' in the distant, undefined future. 'Kondo' implies the next available opportunity, which feels closer.

いつか行きたい (Want to go someday) vs 今度行きたい (Want to go next time).

Padrões de frases

A1

今度、[Verb in present/future].

今度、行きます。

A2

今度の[Noun]は[Adjective]です。

今度のテストは難しいです。

A2

今度、[Verb tai form]です。

今度、食べたいです。

B1

今度は[Verb negative]ようにします。

今度は遅れないようにします。

B1

今度こそ[Verb]ます。

今度こそ勝ちます。

B2

今度[Verb past tense]時は...

今度行った時は...

B2

今度ばかりは[Phrase].

今度ばかりは許せない。

C1

今度の[Noun]により...

今度の改正により...

Família de palavras

Substantivos

今回
次回
前回
毎回

Relacionado

時間
機会
予定

Como usar

frequency

Extremely High (Top 500 words)

Erros comuns
  • 次の電車に乗り遅れたから、今度の電車に乗る。 次の電車に乗り遅れたから、その次の電車に乗る。

    You cannot use 'kondo' for sequential items like trains. You must use 'tsugi' or 'sono tsugi'.

  • 今度、東京に行きました。 この間、東京に行きました。(Or keep it if meaning 'recently', but 'kono aida' is clearer for beginners).

    While 'kondo' can mean recently, beginners often use it intending to say 'Next time I went', which makes no sense. If you mean next time, use a future verb.

  • 今度のページを読んでください。 次のページを読んでください。

    Pages are sequential. You must use 'tsugi' for the next page in a book.

  • 今度にお願いします。 また今度お願いします。

    Adding 'ni' here is unnatural. It is better to use 'mata kondo' as a set phrase for polite refusals.

  • 今度のテストはいつですか? (When asking about a test that just happened) 今回のテストはどうでしたか?

    If you ask 'itsu desu ka' (when is it), it forces 'kondo' to mean the future. If you want to ask about a past test, use past tense.

Dicas

Watch the Verb Tense

Always wait for the end of the sentence. A past tense verb changes the meaning from 'next time' to 'this time'.

The Polite Refusal

Don't get upset if a 'kondo' invitation never materializes. It's often just a polite way to maintain social harmony.

Never for Sequences

Never use this word for the 'next' train, page, or person. Always use 'tsugi' for physical or logical sequences.

Using the 'No' Particle

When placing it before another noun (like test or weekend), you must connect them with the 'no' particle.

Pitch Accent

Keep your pitch flat (heiban). Don't stress the first syllable like an English word.

Formal Emails

If you are writing a very formal apology, upgrade this word to 'konotabi' to show proper respect.

Adding 'Koso'

Add 'koso' (kondo koso) when you want to express strong determination to succeed after a previous failure.

Context is King

If the conversation is about a test you just took, assume it means 'this time'. Context usually makes the tense clear even before the verb.

Mata Kondo

Memorize 'mata kondo ne' as a set phrase for casually brushing off an invitation from a friend.

Konkai vs Kondo

If you only want to talk about the present moment and want to avoid any future ambiguity, use 'konkai' instead.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of a CON artist DOing a trick. You say, 'I won't fall for it NEXT TIME, but THIS TIME you got me!' CON-DO = Next time / This time.

Associação visual

Imagine a calendar with 'NOW' circled. The word points an arrow to the day immediately before it (this time) and the day immediately after it (next time).

Word Web

Time Next This Recently Opportunity Excuse Polite Future

Desafio

Next time someone asks you to do something you don't want to do, mentally practice saying 'kondo' to yourself as a polite refusal.

Origem da palavra

The word is composed of two kanji: 今 (kon/ima) meaning 'now' or 'present', and 度 (do/tabi) meaning 'degree', 'time', or 'occurrence'. It originated in Middle Japanese to describe the occurrence closest to the present moment.

Significado original: Literally 'this current degree' or 'the occurrence adjacent to now'.

Japonic

Contexto cultural

Be careful not to press for a specific date if someone uses 'kondo' vaguely to decline an invitation. It can make them uncomfortable.

English speakers often find the polite refusal aspect frustrating, as 'next time' in English usually implies a concrete intention to reschedule.

Often used in anime titles and dialogue, e.g., 'Kondo wa zettai ni...' (Next time, absolutely...). A common trope in Japanese dramas where a character waits for a 'kondo' that never comes.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Making plans with friends

  • 今度遊ぼう
  • 今度いつ空いてる?
  • また今度ね
  • 今度一緒にご飯行こう

Discussing recent events

  • 今度のテスト難しかった
  • 今度の旅行楽しかった
  • 今度の映画どうだった?
  • 今度の休みなにした?

Polite refusals

  • 今日は忙しいからまた今度
  • 今度機会があれば
  • 今度誘ってください
  • また今度お願いします

Expressing determination

  • 今度こそ勝つ
  • 今度は失敗しない
  • 今度こそ絶対に
  • 今度から気をつける

Business meetings

  • 今度の会議で
  • 今度のプロジェクト
  • 今度の件について
  • 今度の報告書

Iniciadores de conversa

"今度の週末、何か予定はありますか? (Do you have any plans for next weekend?)"

"今度の休みはどこかに行きますか? (Are you going anywhere on your next day off?)"

"今度、美味しいレストランに行きませんか? (Would you like to go to a delicious restaurant next time?)"

"今度のテスト、自信ありますか? (Are you confident about the upcoming test?)"

"今度、日本に行く予定はありますか? (Do you have plans to go to Japan next time?)"

Temas para diário

Write about a time you used 'kondo' to politely decline an invitation.

Describe what you want to do 'kondo no shuumatsu' (next weekend).

Write about an event that happened 'kondo' (recently) that made you happy.

Explain the difference between 'kondo' and 'tsugi' in your own words.

Write a dialogue where two friends use 'kondo' to make vague plans.

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, you cannot. This is a very common mistake. For sequential things like trains, pages, or people in line, you must use 'tsugi'. 'Kondo' is only for occurrences in time or opportunities.

You must look at the verb at the end of the sentence. If the verb is in the past tense (like -mashita), it means 'this time' or 'recently'. If the verb is in the present/future tense (like -masu), it means 'next time'.

No, it is actually a very polite way to decline an invitation in Japanese culture. It softens the rejection by suggesting a future possibility, even if both people know it might not happen.

Usually, no. 'Kondo' functions well as an adverbial noun on its own. Saying 'kondo ikimasu' is perfectly natural. Adding 'ni' can sometimes sound overly rigid unless contrasting specific times.

'Konkai' strictly means 'this time' and can never be used to talk about the future. 'Kondo' can mean both 'this time' and 'next time' depending on the context.

Yes, you can use it to refer to upcoming meetings or recent events. However, for very formal apologies or major announcements, it is better to use the more formal word 'konotabi'.

This is a cultural phenomenon known as 'tatemae' (polite facade). It is often used as a friendly way to end a conversation rather than a concrete plan. Do not take it literally unless they follow up with a date.

You can use the phrase 'kondo koso'. The particle 'koso' adds strong emphasis, showing determination that this time will be different from previous failures.

Yes. For example, 'kondo wa okurenaide kudasai' means 'please do not be late next time'. The 'wa' particle is often used here to contrast with a previous time when they were late.

It is a temporal noun, but it often functions adverbially in a sentence without needing a particle, similar to words like 'kyou' (today) or 'ashita' (tomorrow).

Teste-se 200 perguntas

writing

Write a sentence inviting a friend to go to karaoke next time.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence stating that the test this time was easy.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence expressing your determination to win next time using 'kondo koso'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a polite refusal to an invitation using 'mata kondo'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence asking when the next meeting is.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence stating that you will be careful from now on (kondo kara).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence modifying the noun 'weekend' with 'kondo'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence stating you want to eat sushi next time.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence stating you bought a new bag recently (using kondo).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a formal sentence using 'konotabi' to apologize.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence asking someone to teach you next time.

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writing

Write a sentence stating you will call next time.

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writing

Write a sentence stating the next trip will be fun.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'kondo bakari wa' (this time especially).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence stating you will bring it next time.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence asking if someone is free next Sunday.

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writing

Write a sentence stating you will consult your parents next time you go home.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write a sentence stating the proposal this time is excellent.

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writing

Write a sentence stating you will not forgive them this time.

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writing

Write a sentence stating you plan to buy a car next time.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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speaking

Read this aloud:

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Read this aloud:

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listening

What is the speaker suggesting?

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listening

What did the speaker think of the test?

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listening

Why is the speaker declining?

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listening

What is the speaker's attitude?

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listening

When is the next meeting?

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listening

What is the speaker asking?

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listening

What does the speaker want to do next time?

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listening

What is the speaker requesting?

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listening

How was the recent trip?

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listening

When will the photos be handed over?

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listening

How does the speaker feel?

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listening

What is the plan for the next day off?

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listening

What is the speaker offering to do?

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listening

What is the speaker's impression of the next project?

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listening

What does this phrase mean?

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error correction

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: 次の電車に乗り遅れたから、その次の電車に乗る。
error correction

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: 今度、東京に行きます。
error correction

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: 次のページを読んでください。
error correction

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: また今度お願いします。
error correction

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: 今回のテストはどうでしたか?
error correction

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: 次の人は誰ですか?
error correction

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: 今度こそ行きます。
error correction

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: 今度から遅れません。
error correction

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: 今度の週末は楽しいでしょう。
error correction

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa: 今度一緒に食べましょう。

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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