How to Say ‘Until 3 o'clock’ in Japanese
3時まで
3 ji made
[san ji made]
💬 Usage Tip: [まで] means 'until' and shows the limit or end point of an action. Think of it as 'keep going up to that time.'
🇯🇵 In Japan: At work, [3時まで] often describes how long something continues, like a meeting or shift. It is different from a deadline, so listening for [まで] versus [までに] is important.
Phrase Breakdown
3
3
[san]
three
The number 3. In 3時まで, it helps express the time limit as 3 o'clock.
締切は3時までです。
The deadline is until 3 o'clock.
時
ji
[ji]
o'clock / hour
Marks the hour in a time expression. With 3, it becomes 3時, meaning 3 o'clock.
作業は3時までに終わります。
The work will finish by 3 o'clock.
まで
made
[made]
until
Shows the end point of time or place. In 3時まで, it means until 3 o'clock.
今日は3時まで働きます。
Today I will work until 3 o'clock.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager