Translation guide
Expressing the current moment or the present era in Japanese. The most natural way depends on whether you mean 'right now' (a point in time) or 'nowadays/these days' (a period).
Referring to the immediate present, the current point in time.
The most common and versatile word for 'now'. Can be used in almost any context.
Referring to the present era or current trends, as opposed to the past.
Can also mean 'nowadays' when used with a broader time frame. Context makes it clear.
Referring to the present as a concept, often in philosophical or abstract discussions.
今 (いま) is the everyday word for 'now'. 現在 (げんざい) is more formal and often used in writing, news, or official statements. Use 今 in casual conversation, and 現在 when you need to sound precise or formal.
今、忙しい？
Are you busy now?
現在、システムに問題が発生しています。
Currently, there is a problem with the system.
Using 現在 in casual conversation can sound stiff or overly formal. Stick to 今 unless you are in a business meeting or giving a presentation.
今、何時ですか。
What time is it now?
今すぐ来てください。
Please come right now.
More formal than 今. Often used in written or official contexts, like 'at present' or 'currently'.
現在、空席はありません。
There are no seats available at present.
A very formal and polite way to say 'right now', often used in business settings or announcements. Also means 'I'm home' in casual contexts.
ただいまより会議を始めます。
We will now begin the meeting.
今はスマホがあれば何でもできる。
Nowadays you can do anything with a smartphone.
Means 'recently' or 'lately', often used to describe trends or changes in the present time.
最近、天気が変わりやすい。
The weather has been changeable lately.
Refers to 'modern times' or 'the present age', often in contrast to historical periods.
現代の技術は素晴らしい。
Modern technology is amazing.
Literally 'today', but can mean 'nowadays' in formal or literary contexts. Not to be confused with きょう (today).
今日の社会問題
social issues of today
The standard word for 'the present' in contrast to past and future.
過去よりも現在、現在よりも未来が大切だ。
The present is more important than the past, and the future more than the present.