Time and sequence

～際に / ～際は

when; on the occasion of; at the time of

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How to form it

  • Verb (dictionary or た-form) + 際(に)
  • Noun + の + 際(に)

Register: Formal

Explanation

Marks the occasion when something is done or happens, especially for procedures and notices.

A formal version of とき. It appears in instructions, rules and written announcements.

Examples

  1. 日本へ行く際に、パスポートを忘れないでください。

    にほんへいくさいに、パスポートをわすれないでください。

    When you go to Japan, please do not forget your passport.

  2. 借りる際には、身分証が必要です。

    かりるさいには、みぶんしょうがひつようです。

    When borrowing, ID is required.

  3. 駅に着いた際に、連絡します。

    えきについたさいに、れんらくします。

    I will contact you when I arrive at the station.

Compare with

  • ～に際して: に際して is more formal and for a specific important moment; 際に is general and formal.

Common mistakes

  • Reading 際 as ぎわ. In this pattern it is さい.