noun
modern language; contemporary language
Refers to a language in its current, living form, as opposed to classical or historical stages. Often used in linguistic contexts.
この辞書は現代語の用例を多く載せている。
This dictionary includes many examples of modern language usage.
noun
Specifically refers to the Japanese language as used since the Meiji period or post-WWII, in contrast to classical Japanese (古文/文語).
現代語訳で古典を読むと理解しやすい。
Reading classics in modern Japanese translation makes them easier to understand.