〜までに
by (deadline)
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜までに” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜までに」 means "by (deadline)". Structure: Time + までに. 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
Read the example aloud, then replace one detail with something from your own life.
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金曜日までに故障を出してください。
きんようび までに こしょう を だして ください。
kin'youbi madeni koshou o dashite kudasai.
Please submit the breakdown by Friday.
Everyday life
Example 2金曜日までにお釣りを出してください。
きんようび までに おつり を だして ください。
kin'youbi madeni otsuri o dashite kudasai.
Please submit the change (money) by Friday.
Everyday life
Example 3金曜日までに畳を出してください。
きんようび までに たたみ を だして ください。
kin'youbi madeni tatami o dashite kudasai.
Please submit the tatami mat by Friday.
Everyday life
Example 4金曜日までに紙を出してください。
きんようび までに かみ を だして ください。
kin'youbi madeni kami o dashite kudasai.
Please submit the paper by Friday.
Everyday life
Example 5金曜日までに草を出してください。
きんようび までに くさ を だして ください。
kin'youbi madeni kusa o dashite kudasai.
Please submit the grass by Friday.
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 submit the breakdown by Friday.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜までに.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.