How to Say ‘By 3 pm’ in Japanese
午後三時までに
gogo san ji made ni
[goh-goh san ji ma-de nee]
💬 Usage Tip: までに means "by (a deadline)". Plain まで means "until": 三時まで働く "work until three".
Phrase Breakdown
午後
gogo
[goh-goh]
afternoon; p.m.
Refers to the time after noon.
午後は公園で写真を撮ります。
In the afternoon, I will take photos at the park.
三
san
[san]
three
The number three; a trio.
本を三冊ください。
Please give me three books.
時
ji
[ji]
o'clock
Counter used for hours on the clock.
夜九時まで受け付けています。
We accept it until 9 p.m.
まで
made
[ma-de]
until; by
Shows a limit in time or place.
何時まで大丈夫ですか。
Until what time is okay?
に
ni
[nee]
by (deadline)
With まで, forms までに meaning 'by' a certain time.
五時までに帰ります。
I'll be back by five.
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 feedback on what you say out loud
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Lessons for Your Situation
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 made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”
James O., 28, Remote Worker
“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