Translation guide
The English phrase 'real time' refers to something happening immediately, without delay, or simultaneously with actual events. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is リアルタイム (riarutaimu), a loanword used widely in tech and daily life. Other expressions exist for specific contexts like live broadcasting or instantaneous processing.
Describing something that happens instantly, as events occur, with no perceptible lag.
The most common and versatile equivalent. Used in technology, gaming, news, and casual conversation.
This app updates information in real time.
The real-time translation feature is convenient.
Means 'immediate' or 'instantaneous'. Often used in formal or technical contexts, such as finance or system responses.
An immediate response is necessary.
The system processes data in real time.
Means 'simultaneous'. Can be used when emphasizing that two events occur at exactly the same time, but less common for 'real time' in tech contexts.
The video and audio are played back in real time (simultaneously).
Referring to live television, radio, or internet streaming where content is transmitted as it happens.
Specifically means 'live broadcast'. Used for TV, radio, or streaming that is not pre-recorded.
That program is live (in real time).
Loanword from English 'live'. Commonly used for live music performances, but also for streaming or events.
Combines 'real time' with 'delivery/broadcast'. Used in online contexts, but 生放送 or ライブ are more natural.
Real-time streaming technology is advancing.
Describing systems that process data immediately as it is received, without buffering or delay.
リアルタイム is a general term for 'real time' in any context (tech, daily life). 生放送 specifically means 'live broadcast' and is used for TV/radio/streaming. Don't use 生放送 for real-time data processing.
Stock prices fluctuate in real time.
The news was reported live.
Do not translate 'real time' as 本当の時間 (hontō no jikan) or 実際の時間 (jissai no jikan). These mean 'actual time' in a philosophical sense, not the concept of immediacy.
We need real-time feedback.
The game supports real-time multiplayer.
I watched the match live.
I'm watching a live stream.
I enjoyed the concert live.
Real-time data analysis is important.
This system supports real-time processing.