準急

じゅんきゅう

local express (train, slower than an express)

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

What is 準急?

準急 (じゅんきゅう) refers to a type of train service in Japan known as the "local express." It is faster than a local train (各駅停車) because it skips some smaller stations, but slower than a full express (急行) train. This makes it a popular choice for commuters who want a balance between speed and accessibility.

Usage and Context

When you hear 準急, it usually relates to train travel and timetables. It is commonly used in announcements, ticketing, and travel planning. The term is neutral in formality and can be used in everyday conversation.

Common Collocations

  • 準急電車 (じゅんきゅうでんしゃ): local express train
  • 準急に乗る (じゅんきゅうにのる): to ride the local express
  • 準急の切符 (じゅんきゅうのきっぷ): ticket for the local express

Tips for Learners

Be careful not to confuse 準急 with 急行 (express) or 各駅停車 (local train). 準急 stops at more stations than 急行 but fewer than 各駅停車. When buying tickets or checking schedules, knowing this difference helps avoid delays or wrong trains.

Example Sentences

じゅんきゅうでんしゃはかくえきていしゃよりはやいですが、きゅうこうよりはおそいです。

The local express train is faster than the local train but slower than the express.

じゅんきゅうにのると、しゅようなえきだけにとまるのでつうきんにべんりです。

Riding the local express is convenient for commuting because it stops only at major stations.

じゅんきゅうのきっぷをかうときは、ていしゃえきをよくかくにんしましょう。

When buying a ticket for the local express, be sure to check the stations where it stops.