いとま

Alternative writings: ,
JLPT:N1
Frequency:
1

Spare time; free time or leisure.

NounUsually Kana

Examples

週末はいとまがあるから、一緒に映画に行かない?

I'm free this weekend — want to go to a movie together?

子どもが昼寝している間にいとまができた。

I had some free time while the child was napping.

いとまがあれば、料理教室に通いたい。

If I had free time, I'd like to attend a cooking class.

2

Time off; leave; vacation — taking time away from work or duties.

NounUsually Kana

Examples

彼は家族の事情でしばらくいとまを取ることになった。

He decided to take time off for family reasons.

会社にいとまを願い出て、海外へ行った。

He requested leave from the company and went abroad.

3

A dated/old-fashioned term meaning resignation, dismissal, or divorce.

NounUsually KanaDated Term

Examples

彼は職を辞するいとまを上申した(文語的表現)。

He submitted his resignation (literary expression).

4

Leaving; taking one's leave; farewell — the act of departing or saying goodbye (as in 'おいとま').

NounUsually Kana

Examples

用事があるので、ここでいとまをいただきます。

I have something to do, so I'll take my leave here.

訪問先で丁寧にいとまを告げて帰った。

I politely took my leave at the place I visited and went home.