these days; nowadays; recently
A set phrase often used to comment on current trends or personal feelings about the present time. It carries a slightly reflective or observational tone, similar to 'these days' in English.
These days, the mornings and evenings have become noticeably cooler.
Nowadays, work is so busy that I can't find time for my hobbies.
最近 is a more general and common word for 'recently' or 'lately', while 今日この頃 is a set phrase with a slightly more reflective or literary nuance.
この頃 means 'these days' or 'lately' and is more casual and flexible, while 今日この頃 is a fixed, slightly more formal expression.
Standard kanji-kana mixed spelling; the most common written form.
Variant with ごろ in hiragana; slightly softer or more casual feel.
The rare kanji 此 is also used; mostly seen in older or literary texts.
Partial kana spelling; uncommon but understandable.
Abbreviated kanji form; very rare and not recommended for learners.
A fixed phrase combining 今日 (kyou, 'today') and この頃 (kono goro, 'these days'). The repetition reinforces the meaning of 'nowadays' or 'these days'.