〜うちに
while / before it changes
Show when one action happens in relation to another.
Remember it
Place two moments on a timeline and join them with 〜うちに.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜うちに」 means "while / before it changes". Structure: Verb/Adj + うちに. This is a JLPT N3 pattern — the examples below slot different everyday and workplace words into the same structure so you can see how it behaves. Learn the structure, then swap in your own words.
When to use it
Use it for routines, status updates, sequences, and telling stories.
Tone: Neutral
A general pattern; let the sentence ending and situation set the politeness level.
Use
Hear it in real life
Everyday life
Example 1明るいうちに利用を終わらせましょう。
あかるい うち に りよう を おわらせましょう。
akarui uchi ni riyou o owarasemashou.
Let's finish the use while it is still light.
Everyday life
Example 2明るいうちに指導を終わらせましょう。
あかるい うち に しどう を おわらせましょう。
akarui uchi ni shidou o owarasemashou.
Let's finish the guidance while it is still light.
Everyday life
Example 3明るいうちに記録を終わらせましょう。
あかるい うち に きろく を おわらせましょう。
akarui uchi ni kiroku o owarasemashou.
Let's finish the record while it is still light.
Everyday life
Example 4明るいうちに配送を終わらせましょう。
あかるい うち に はいそう を おわらせましょう。
akarui uchi ni haisou o owarasemashou.
Let's finish the shipping while it is still light.
Everyday life
Example 5明るいうちに通訳を終わらせましょう。
あかるい うち に つうやく を おわらせましょう。
akarui uchi ni tsuuyaku o owarasemashou.
Let's finish the interpretation while it is still light.
Make it yours
Choose one example. Replace one person, place, object, or time with a detail from your life, then say the new sentence aloud.
Recall
Test your memory
Recall practice
Can you say it?
1 of 5
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
Let's finish the use while it is still light.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜うちに.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.