いつか

itsuka
adverbBeginner
informal

someday; one day (expressing an uncertain or hopeful future time)

いつか、海外に住みたいです。

Someday, I want to live abroad.

いつか会えるかな?

I wonder if we'll meet someday?

💡

Often used to express a vague or hopeful future possibility.

informal

once (in the past, but not specifying when)

いつか、この映画を見たことがあります。

I've seen this movie once before.

💡

Less common than the first meaning, but still used in casual speech.

Collocations

いつか会いたいI want to meet somedayいつか行きたいI want to go someday

Synonyms

Antonyms

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

The meaning of 'いつか' depends heavily on context. In most cases, it refers to an uncertain future time, but it can also mean 'once' in the past.

Gold Rule

Future vs. Past

To avoid confusion, pay attention to the context. If the sentence is about hopes or plans, 'いつか' likely means 'someday.' If it's about past experiences, it means 'once.'

📝Usage Notes

Often used in casual conversation to express hopes or vague future plans. Can also be used to refer to an unspecified past event.

Noted on May 2, 2026JAEN