現在
genzaithe present time; now
現在の状況を説明してください。
Please explain the current situation.
Often used to refer to the time being discussed or experienced.
current; present (as in 'current state')
現在の経済状況は不安定です。
The current economic situation is unstable.
Used in formal contexts to describe the existing state of affairs.
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Time vs. State
'現在' can refer to both time and state, but in most cases, it means 'now' or 'current time.'
⚡Gold Rule
Formal vs. Informal
In formal writing, '現在' is preferred over '今' to refer to the present time.
📖Word Origin
From Middle Chinese 現 (hyén, 'appear') + 在 (tsyæ, 'be at'). The term refers to the time that is currently being experienced or observed.
📝Usage Notes
While '現在' can mean both 'present time' and 'current state,' it is most commonly used to refer to the time being discussed. For spatial contexts, '現在地' (current location) is often used.