1.
first train, first bus
The first train or bus of the day on a particular route.
始発電車に乗る。
I take the first train.
始発は5時30分です。
The first train is at 5:30.
始発に乗るために早起きした。
I woke up early to catch the first train.
始発バスは6時だ。
The first bus is at 6 o'clock.
終電を逃したので始発まで待った。
I missed the last train and waited for the first train.
始発電車は満員ではない。
The first train is not crowded.
2.
starting station, originating station
The station where a train or bus begins its route.
この駅は始発駅なので、座れる。
Since this is the originating station, I can get a seat.
東京駅が始発の新幹線に乗った。
I took a bullet train originating from Tokyo Station.
始発駅から乗ると空いている。
It's empty if you get on at the originating station.
始発から終点まで乗る。
To ride from the originating to the terminal station.
この路線の始発駅はどこですか。
Where is the originating station for this line?
始発 combines 始 (begin) + 発 (departure).
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 始発電車/始発バス (first train/bus)
- 始発駅 (originating station)
- 始発に乗る (to catch the first train)
RELATED TERMS:
- 終電 (last train) - antonym
- 終発 (last departure)
- 終点 (terminal station) - opposite of 始発駅
USAGE NOTES:
- 始発 alone often means "first train" in context
- Useful word for commuters and travelers in Japan
Related Words
Antonym:
終電 (last train)