1.
new school term; new semester; new academic term
The beginning of a new academic term or semester. In Japan, the school year traditionally starts in April, so 新学期 most commonly refers to the start of the April term.
新学期が始まった。
The new school term has begun.
新学期に向けて教科書を買いそろえた。
I bought all the textbooks in preparation for the new term.
新学期になると、新しい友達ができるのが楽しみだ。
When the new term starts, I look forward to making new friends.
USAGE:
新学期 combines 新 (new) and 学期 (school term/semester). In Japan, the academic year begins in April, so 新学期 most often refers to the spring term.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 新学期が始まる (the new term begins)
- 新学期に向けて (in preparation for the new term)
- 新学期の準備 (preparation for the new term)
SIMILAR WORDS:
学期 is the general word for a school term or semester. 新年度 refers to the new fiscal or academic year as a whole, which is broader than a single term.