〜とき
when ~
Show when one action happens in relation to another.
Remember it
Place two moments on a timeline and join them with 〜とき.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜とき」 means "when ~". Structure: Plain form + とき. 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会議のとき、メモを取ります。
かいぎ の とき、めも を とります。
kaigi no toki, memo o torimasu.
I take notes during the meeting.
Everyday life
Example 2紹介のとき、メモを取ります。
しょうかい の とき、めも を とります。
shoukai no toki, memo o torimasu.
I take notes during the introduction.
Everyday life
Example 3経験のとき、メモを取ります。
けいけん の とき、めも を とります。
keiken no toki, memo o torimasu.
I take notes during the experience.
Everyday life
Example 4翻訳のとき、メモを取ります。
ほんやく の とき、めも を とります。
hon'yaku no toki, memo o torimasu.
I take notes during the translation.
Everyday life
Example 5給料のとき、メモを取ります。
きゅうりょう の とき、めも を とります。
kyuuryou no toki, memo o torimasu.
I take notes during 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
I take notes during the meeting.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜とき.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.