来年

Used to refer to the calendar year immediately following the current one. It is the standard term used in almost all daily conversations and general writing.

In highly formal or literary contexts, the word 明年 (myōnen) may be used, but in spoken Japanese, 来年 is overwhelmingly more common. Using 明年 in a casual conversation would sound unnaturally stiff or archaic.

When paired with the particle こそ (koso), as in 来年こそ (rainen koso), it expresses a strong determination or a hopeful wish to achieve something that was not accomplished this year. This pattern is frequently used when reflecting on failures or missed opportunities.