Translation guide
The English phrase 'now, ...' is often used as a discourse marker to transition, introduce a new topic, or express a conclusion. In Japanese, the equivalent depends heavily on the function: changing the subject, prompting action, or expressing 'now that'.
Used to shift the conversation to a new topic or to wrap up the current one.
A common discourse marker used to change the subject or move on to the next point. Often used in speeches, presentations, or when starting a new activity.
さて、次の話題に移りましょう。
Now, let's move on to the next topic.
さて、そろそろ始めましょうか。
Now, shall we get started?
A conjunction meaning 'well then' or 'now then', used to transition or conclude. Slightly more formal than じゃあ.
では、本題に入ります。
Now, let's get to the main topic.
Casual version of では, used in everyday conversation to change the subject or wrap up.
じゃあ、また明日ね。
Now, see you tomorrow.
Used to encourage someone to do something or to express that it's time to act.
An interjection used to urge someone to start or to express 'come on' or 'now then'. Often used when initiating an action.
Used when actually starting something important or at a critical moment. Conveys a sense of 'now is the time'.
いざという時に備える。
Prepare for when the time comes (now, when it matters).
Indicates that because something has happened or is the case, something else follows.
Attached to verbs/adjectives to mean 'now that' or 'since'. Implies a strong sense of obligation or natural consequence.
約束した以上、守らなければならない。
Now that I've promised, I must keep it.
Similar to 以上, meaning 'now that' or 'since'. Often used to express determination or a natural course of action.
やるからには最後までやりたい。
Now that I'm doing it, I want to see it through.
Specifically for past tense, meaning 'now that (something has happened)'.
こうなった以上、仕方がない。
Now that it's come to this, there's no help for it.
Referring to the current time, often in contrast to the past or future.
The basic word for 'now'. Can be used in many contexts.
今、何をしていますか？
What are you doing now?
More formal, often used in written or official contexts to mean 'currently' or 'at present'.
さて is used when the speaker is taking initiative to change the topic or start something new, often in monologues or presentations. では and じゃあ are more interactive, used in conversations to wrap up or transition. じゃあ is the casual form of では.
さて、仕事を始めよう。
Now, let's start work. (self-prompting)
では、会議を終わります。
Now, we'll end the meeting. (formal transition)
じゃあ、またね。
Now, see you. (casual farewell)
When 'now' is used as a discourse marker (e.g., 'Now, let's begin'), translating it as 今 (いま) is often unnatural. Use さて, では, or じゃあ instead. Reserve 今 for when you are literally referring to the present time.
現在、空席はありません。
Currently, there are no vacancies.