What it means
際に means “on the occasion of” or “at the time of.” It identifies a specific situation or event as the point when another action occurs. It is more formal and more common in written language, official notices, instructions, and business contexts than ときに. It commonly follows a noun with の, or a verb in the plain nonpast or past form.
Usage note
際に is formal and can sound stiff in casual conversation, where ときに is often more natural. With a noun, use の際に; with a verb, use the plain form directly before 際に.
How to use it
入国の際に、税関申告書を提出します。
The customs declaration form is submitted when entering the country.
申請する際に、必要書類を確認します。
The necessary documents are checked when applying.
到着した際に、担当者へ連絡しました。
Upon arrival, the person in charge was contacted.
入国の際に、税関申告書を提出する。
The customs declaration form is submitted when entering the country.
申請する際に、必要書類を確認する。
The necessary documents are checked when applying.
到着した際に、担当者へ連絡した。
Upon arrival, the person in charge was contacted.