Japanese grammar
What does ～たびに mean? Japanese grammar N3
～たびに means every time ~; whenever ~ (repeated whenever A occurs).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N3 |
|---|---|
| Structure | Vる + たびに Nの + たびに |
| Romaji | tabini |
| Meaning | every time ~; whenever ~ (repeated whenever A occurs) |
Forming it
| Noun | 試験 + の + たびに |
|---|---|
| Verb | 会う + たびに |
How to use it
Expresses that every time event A happens, B also happens, emphasizing the regular, repeated link between the two events.
- 「～たびに」 connects two events in an “every time A, then B” relationship. A is a repeatable event, and B is the accompanying result each time.
- Usually used when B is an emotion, memory, or recurring change; not suitable for something that happens only once.
- Different from 「～と」 (a general condition/cause-effect): 「たびに」 emphasizes the REGULARITY of the repetition across many occurrences.
Examples
この曲を聞くたびに、学生時代を思い出す。
Every time I hear this song, I remember my student days.
彼女は会うたびに、髪型が変わっている。
Every time I see her, her hairstyle has changed.
Keep in mind
- Nouns denoting an event (試験, 旅行) connect with 「たびに」 via 「の」.
- The following clause should not be a command or invitation; 「たびに」 describes an event, not a directive.
Common mistakes
-
Wrongきのう彼に会うたびに、うれしかった。
I was happy when I met him yesterday.
Correct彼に会うたびに、うれしくなる。
「たびに」 describes something that happens REPEATEDLY; it cannot be used for one specific instance in the past like 「きのう」 (yesterday).
-
Wrong旅行たびに、おみやげを買う。
Every time I travel, I buy souvenirs.
Correct旅行のたびに、おみやげを買う。
The noun 「旅行」 must connect to 「たびに」 with 「の」.
Exam tips
- If the sentence describes only a single occurrence, don't use 「たびに」; this pattern needs a repeated context.