1.
expiration; expired; past the deadline
The state of having passed a set time limit or deadline. Used for food expiry dates, visa expirations, contract deadlines, and similar time-bound items.
パスポートが期限切れだ。
My passport is expired.
期限切れの牛乳を飲んでしまった。
I accidentally drank expired milk.
クーポンの期限切れに気づかず、レジで使えなかった。
I didn't notice the coupon had expired and couldn't use it at the register.
WORD FORMATION:
期限 (time limit, deadline) + 切れ (expiry, running out). Functions as both a noun and a modifier (期限切れの + noun).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 期限切れの食品: expired food
- 期限切れのパスポート: expired passport
- 期限切れになる: to expire, to become expired
- 賞味期限切れ: past the best-before date
- 消費期限切れ: past the use-by date
JAPANESE FOOD LABELS:
Japan distinguishes two dates: 賞味期限 (best-before date — quality guarantee) and 消費期限 (use-by date — safety limit). 賞味期限切れ food may still be safe, while 消費期限切れ food should not be eaten.