たまに寝る

You can use this phrase to answer questions about your well-being. If a friend asks, 'Are you getting enough rest?' you can drop this phrase. It works best when you want to sound hardworking but relatable. You can also use it to describe a chaotic lifestyle. Just pair たまに (occasionally) with the verb 寝る (to sleep).

This is perfect for the 'crunch time' before an exam. Use it when you are staying late at the office. It’s a great way to bond with fellow night owls. You might text it to a friend at 3 AM. It also fits well in a casual self-introduction if you want to sound like a workaholic.

Avoid using this in a serious medical discussion with a doctor. They might take you literally and get worried! Also, don't use it with a strict boss. They might think you are actually neglecting your health or being sarcastic. If you are genuinely suffering from insomnia, use more specific terms like 不眠症 (insomnia).

Japan has a complex relationship with sleep. There is a concept called 居眠り (inemuri), which is napping in public or at work. Being 'busy' is often seen as a sign of dedication. By saying you only 'occasionally' sleep, you are nodding to this culture of extreme diligence. It’s a way to show you are giving your all to your responsibilities.

You will often hear たまにしか寝ない (I hardly ever sleep). This version is even more dramatic. Another common one is たまにはゆっくり寝たい (I want to sleep deeply for once). If you want to be more polite, use たまに寝ます. For a very casual vibe, just say たまに寝るわ to your close friends.