〜まで
until ~
Show when one action happens in relation to another.
Remember it
Place two moments on a timeline and join them with 〜まで.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜まで」 means "until ~". Structure: Time/Place + まで. This is a JLPT N4 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
At work
Example 1会議まで待ってください。
かいぎ まで まって ください。
kaigi made matte kudasai.
Please wait until the meeting.
Everyday life
Example 2紹介まで待ってください。
しょうかい まで まって ください。
shoukai made matte kudasai.
Please wait until the introduction.
Everyday life
Example 3経験まで待ってください。
けいけん まで まって ください。
keiken made matte kudasai.
Please wait until the experience.
Everyday life
Example 4翻訳まで待ってください。
ほんやく まで まって ください。
hon'yaku made matte kudasai.
Please wait until the translation.
Everyday life
Example 5給料まで待ってください。
きゅうりょう まで まって ください。
kyuuryou made matte kudasai.
Please wait until the salary.
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
Please wait until the meeting.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜まで.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.