季節柄

• Reading: きせつがら
• Romaji: kisetsugara
• Kanji breakdown: 季 (ki) — season; 節 (setsu) — occasion, period; 柄 (gara) — nature, pattern, character
• Pronunciation: /ki.se.t͡sɯ.ɡa.ɾa/

Meaning

Given the season; considering the time of year. An expression acknowledging that something is typical or expected for the current season.

A noun used adverbially to preface statements about seasonal conditions or expectations. The suffix 柄 (gara) adds the nuance of 'considering the nature of' — so 季節柄 means 'given what the season is like.' Frequently appears in polite conversation and letters, especially seasonal greetings. Often placed at the beginning of a sentence to set context for advice or observations about seasonal health, weather, or customs.

Examples

1. 季節柄、体調を崩しやすいのでお気をつけください。 With the season being what it is, please take care not to fall ill.
2. 季節柄、朝晩の冷え込みが厳しくなってきた。 With the season in mind, the mornings and evenings have gotten quite cold.
3. 季節柄、花粉症に悩まされている人が多い。 With hay fever season in full swing, a lot of people are suffering.

Usage Guide

Context: letters, greetings, polite conversation

Tone: considerate

Origin & History

Compound of 季節 (kisetsu, season) + 柄 (gara, nature/character of). Literally 'the character of the season' — acknowledging what is typical for the current time of year.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal