いよいよ
Meanings
1
more and more; increasingly; all the more
usually written using kana alone
Expresses a gradual increase in degree or intensity, often with a sense of anticipation or inevitability.
The typhoon is getting closer and closer.
The game has become increasingly exciting.
3
at the last moment; at the worst possible time
usually written using kana alone
Used when something critical happens right at the end or when a situation is most urgent; often appears in set phrases like いよいよという時.
Right at the crucial moment, my phone battery died.
If it comes to the worst, please call this number.
Usage patterns
- いよいよ〈形容詞〉なるto become increasingly ~ (as a climax approaches)
As the typhoon approached, the wind grew increasingly strong.
- いよいよ〈事〉が始まるthe long-awaited ~ finally begins
After long preparation, the match is finally about to begin.
- いよいよという時at the critical moment; when it really comes down to it
Just at the critical moment, my computer stopped working.