Translation guide
The English word 'contemporary' can mean 'modern/present-day' or 'from the same time period'. Japanese uses different words for these meanings. This guide helps you choose the right expression.
Describing something as modern, current, or belonging to the present time.
The most common and neutral way to say 'contemporary' in the sense of 'modern' or 'present-day'. Used for society, art, issues, etc.
現代のテクノロジーは急速に進歩している。
Contemporary technology is advancing rapidly.
この美術館は現代のアートを展示している。
This museum exhibits contemporary art.
Describing people or things that existed or happened at the same time in history.
Means 'of the same era/period'. Used for historical figures, events, or works.
シェイクスピアとセルバンテスは同時代の作家だ。
Shakespeare and Cervantes were contemporary writers.
Use 現代の (gendai no) when you mean 'modern' or 'present-day'. Use 同時代の (doujidai no) when you mean 'from the same historical period'. Mixing them up can cause confusion.
現代の音楽は多様だ。
Contemporary (modern) music is diverse.
バッハとヘンデルは同時代の作曲家だ。
Bach and Handel were contemporary composers.
Do not translate 'contemporary' as コンテンポラリー in most contexts. It is a niche loanword and can sound unnatural. Stick to 現代の or 同時代の depending on the meaning.
Adjectival form meaning 'modern-style' or 'contemporary'. Often used for design, architecture, or lifestyle.
彼の家はとても現代的なデザインだ。
His house has a very contemporary design.
Loanword from English, used mainly in specific contexts like 'contemporary dance' or 'contemporary art'. Not as common as 現代の.
彼女はコンテンポラリーダンスを習っている。
She is learning contemporary dance.
This document is valuable as a contemporary record of that time.
A more literal and slightly less formal way to say 'of the same period'. Suitable for everyday conversation.
彼らは同じ時代に生きた。
They lived in the same era.
Specifically means 'of the same generation', often used for people of similar age groups rather than historical periods.
彼は私と同世代のアーティストだ。
He is a contemporary artist of my generation.