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.
Forms
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.
Related Words
Related:
期限 (deadline, time limit)
Compare:
失効 (lapse)
Related:
期限内 (within the deadline)