1.
local train; regular train
A train that stops at every station along its route. The slowest but cheapest type of train service, requiring no special ticket or surcharge.
普通列車で行く。
I'll go by local train.
次の普通列車は何時ですか。
What time is the next local train?
普通列車だと二時間かかるが、特急なら一時間で着く。
The local train takes two hours, but the express gets there in one.
The most basic train service class in Japan, stopping at every station. Often shortened to 普通 in conversation and on station signs.
JAPAN TRAIN HIERARCHY (slowest to fastest):
- 普通/各駅停車: local (stops at all stations)
- 快速: rapid
- 急行: express
- 特急: limited express
- 新幹線: bullet train
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 普通列車の切符: local train ticket
- 普通列車自由席: unreserved seat on a local train
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 各駅停車: local train (lit. stopping at each station) — synonym, more descriptive
- 鈍行: slow train — colloquial, slightly old-fashioned
USAGE:
No additional fare is required beyond the basic ticket price. On station platforms, displayed as 普通 on departure boards.