Translation guide
Expresses that something happened at exactly that moment, often with a sense of coincidence or timing. The most natural Japanese equivalent depends on whether the event is in the past, present, or a narrative.
Describing something that happened at precisely that time in the past, often with a nuance of coincidence or suddenness.
A direct and natural way to say 'just then' for past events. It emphasizes the exact timing.
Just then, the phone rang.
Just then, he came in.
Simply 'at that time'. Less emphatic than ちょうどその時, but still common. Often used in storytelling.
Just then, it suddenly started raining.
A conjunction meaning 'thereupon' or 'just then', used to connect events in a narrative. Implies a natural or immediate sequence.
I opened the door. Just then, a cat jumped out.
Literally 'at that instant'. Stronger emphasis on the exact moment, often used in dramatic or literary contexts.
Just then, everything changed.
Referring to something happening right now, often with a sense of immediacy or coincidence.
Used in storytelling to mark a sudden event or turning point. Often found in written Japanese.
Combines 'at that time' with 'suddenly/unexpectedly'. Common in literary narratives to introduce a sudden thought or action.
Just then, he suddenly remembered something.
A formal/literary expression meaning 'just then' or 'at that very moment'. Often used in historical or dramatic contexts.
Directly translating 'just then' as ただその時 is unnatural. Use the phrases above depending on context.
ちょうどその時 emphasizes the exact moment, while すると connects two events in a sequence. Use すると when the second event is a direct result or immediate follow-up.
Just then, he arrived. (focus on timing)
He arrived. Just then, everyone applauded. (sequence)
I got back just then.
折しも、鐘が鳴り響いた。
Just then, the bell rang out.