Translation guide
Expresses the current state or situation, often implying it may change. Common in formal or written contexts.
Describe the current situation or state, often with a nuance of temporariness or contrast with past/future.
Neutral and widely used in both spoken and written Japanese. Can be used in formal and informal settings.
現在、東京に住んでいます。
At present, I live in Tokyo.
現在の状況をお知らせください。
Please let us know the current situation.
Formal and often used in business or official contexts. Implies focus on the immediate present.
Literally 'at this point in time'. Used to emphasize the current moment, often in reports or news.
Common in spoken Japanese. Implies 'so far' or 'for now', suggesting things may change.
For the time being; implies a temporary situation or immediate future. Often used in business.
Emphasize that the current state is temporary and likely to change soon.
現在 is neutral and can be used in any register, while 今のところ is more conversational and explicitly suggests that the situation may change. 現在 is often preferred in written reports or formal announcements.
現在、空席はありません。
At present, there are no vacant seats.
今のところ、空席はないよ。
At present, there are no vacant seats (but that could change).
The English phrase 'at present' can sometimes be translated literally as 現在において, but this is stiff and rarely used. Stick to the options above for natural Japanese.
At present, we are considering countermeasures.
現時点では、被害の報告はありません。
At present, there are no reports of damage.
At present, there are no problems.
今のところ、彼から連絡はない。
At present, I haven't heard from him.
当面の間、営業時間を短縮します。
At present, we will shorten business hours.
Very common in casual speech. Means 'for now' or 'for the time being', often used when making a provisional decision.
とりあえず、ビールをください。
For now, I'll have a beer.
とりあえず、ここで待とう。
Let's wait here for now.
Means 'for the time being' or 'tentatively'. Often implies a lack of full commitment or a provisional arrangement.
一応、準備はできています。
At present, I'm prepared (though it may not be perfect).