Translation guide
Expresses the idea of something happening continuously, gradually, or at each successive moment. Japanese often uses adverbial phrases or mimetic words rather than a single direct equivalent.
Describing an ongoing process or state that unfolds with every passing moment.
Adverb meaning 'moment by moment', 'hour by hour', often used for gradual change or progression.
状況が刻々と変化している。
The situation is changing moment by moment.
Literally 'each instant', emphasizes every single moment. Can be used adverbially with に.
一瞬一瞬を大切に生きたい。
I want to live cherishing each and every moment.
More literary or formal version of 刻々と, meaning 'moment by moment' or 'hour by hour'.
時々刻々と情勢は悪化している。
The situation is worsening moment by moment.
Emphasizing incremental change over time, often with a sense of steady progression.
Common adverb for 'gradually', 'little by little'. Fits many contexts where 'moment by moment' implies slow change.
痛みが徐々に引いていった。
The pain subsided moment by moment.
Means 'little by little', 'bit by bit'. More casual than 徐々に.
Mindfulness or appreciation of the present, often used in inspirational contexts.
Common phrase meaning 'live in the present moment'. Captures the idea of moment-by-moment awareness.
過去を悔やまず、今この瞬間を生きよう。
Don't regret the past; live moment by moment.
Means 'cherish each moment'. Emphasizes valuing every instant.
彼は一瞬一瞬を大切にする人だ。
He is someone who lives moment by moment.
Direct translations like '瞬間ごとに' are not idiomatic. Use the adverbial phrases above instead.
少しずつ慣れてきた。
I'm getting used to it moment by moment.