on this occasion; now; in these circumstances; with this opportunity
Used to introduce a decision, suggestion, or action prompted by the current situation. Often implies 'while we're at it' or 'given the circumstances'.
この際、はっきり言っておく。
I'll say it clearly now, while I have the chance.
この際だから、ついでに掃除もしてしまおう。
Since we're at it, let's clean up as well.
Rarely used kanji form; 此 is an old kanji for こ.
Compound of この (this) and 際 (occasion, time).