たまたま

(2 entries)
Alternative writings: 偶々, 偶偶, ,
JLPT:N3
Frequency:
1

By chance; accidentally; unexpectedly — indicating something happening without planning or intention.

AdverbUsually Kana

Examples

駅でたまたま大学の友達に会った。

I happened to meet a college friend at the station.

彼女はたまたまその記事を読んで興味を持った。

She happened to read that article and became interested.

たまたま通りかかっただけで、この店に入ったわけではない。

I didn't just happen to pass by and enter this shop (implying a different reason).

2

Occasionally; once in a while; now and then — used to indicate infrequent occurrences (similar to 'tama ni').

AdverbUsually Kana

Examples

たまたま休日に映画を観に行くことがある。

Occasionally I go to the movies on my day off.

彼はたまたましか顔を出さないので、話す機会が少ない。

He only shows up occasionally, so there are few opportunities to talk to him.

Word Relationships

Synonyms
Antonym