Translation guide
The English phrase "right now" can refer to the immediate present moment, a very recent past, or the very near future. It can also be used for emphasis or to express urgency. Japanese uses different expressions depending on the nuance.
To express that something is happening or is true at the present instant, often with a sense of immediacy.
The most basic and common word for 'now'. Can be used in most situations, but may need context to convey the immediacy of 'right now'.
What are you doing right now?
Please come right now.
Literally 'just now', this is a polite and formal way to say 'right now', often used in business settings or when answering the phone.
Emphasizes immediacy: 'right now, immediately'. Used for actions that need to happen without delay.
Let's leave right now.
Means 'just now' or 'right at this moment', emphasizing the exact timing.
I sent the email just now.
To indicate that something will happen immediately or within a very short time.
Means 'immediately' or 'right away'. Very common for near-future actions.
To refer to the current period or state of affairs, not necessarily this exact second.
To stress that something must be done immediately, often with a sense of impatience.
I need it right now.
ただ今、会議中です。
We are in a meeting right now.
I'll be back right now.
Literally 'from now', used when starting something immediately.
I'll start right now.
A more formal word for 'now' or 'currently'. Suitable for written or formal contexts.
There are no vacancies right now.
Means 'at the moment' or 'for now', implying the situation may change.
There are no problems right now.
An adverb meaning 'quickly' or 'without delay', often used in rough or impatient commands.
Clean it up right now.
The system is operating normally right now.
In Japanese, the immediacy of 'right now' is often conveyed by context or by using words like 今すぐ (いますぐ) or すぐに. Simply using 今 may not always carry the same urgency. If you want to stress 'immediately', add すぐ or use a phrase like 今すぐ.
Right now, I'm not sure.