Translation guide
The English phrase "right now" can refer to the immediate present moment, a very recent past, or the very near future. It can also be used for emphasis or to express urgency. Japanese uses different expressions depending on the nuance.
To express that something is happening or is true at the present instant, often with a sense of immediacy.
The most basic and common word for 'now'. Can be used in most situations, but may need context to convey the immediacy of 'right now'.
What are you doing right now?
今すぐ来てください。
Please come right now.
Literally 'just now', this is a polite and formal way to say 'right now', often used in business settings or when answering the phone.
ただ今、会議中です。
We are in a meeting right now.
Emphasizes immediacy: 'right now, immediately'. Used for actions that need to happen without delay.
今すぐ出発しましょう。
Let's leave right now.
Means 'just now' or 'right at this moment', emphasizing the exact timing.
ちょうど今、メールを送りました。
I sent the email just now.
To indicate that something will happen immediately or within a very short time.
To refer to the current period or state of affairs, not necessarily this exact second.
A more formal word for 'now' or 'currently'. Suitable for written or formal contexts.
現在、空席はありません。
There are no vacancies right now.
Means 'at the moment' or 'for now', implying the situation may change.
To stress that something must be done immediately, often with a sense of impatience.
今 (いま) is the everyday word for 'now'. 現在 (げんざい) is more formal and often used in written language or official announcements. In casual speech, 今 is preferred.
今、忙しい？
Are you busy right now?
現在、システムは正常に動作しています。
The system is operating normally right now.
In Japanese, the immediacy of 'right now' is often conveyed by context or by using words like 今すぐ (いますぐ) or すぐに. Simply using 今 may not always carry the same urgency. If you want to stress 'immediately', add すぐ or use a phrase like 今すぐ.
今すぐ必要です。
I need it right now.
今のところ、よくわかりません。
Right now, I'm not sure.
There are no problems right now.