Translation and Meaning of: 今後 - kongo

The Japanese word 今後 [こんご] is an essential term for those who wish to master the language or better understand Japanese culture. Its meaning goes beyond a simple translation, carrying important nuances in the daily and formal use of the language. In this article, we will explore what 今後 really means, how to use it correctly, and why it is so relevant in Japanese conversations and texts.

In addition to unveiling its meaning and translation, let's analyze its practical use in different contexts, from everyday situations to professional environments. If you've ever wondered how the Japanese plan for the future or express expectations, understanding 今後 is a fundamental step. Let's get started!

Meaning and translation of 今後

今後 is composed of the kanji 今 (now, present) and 後 (after, future), forming a term that can be translated as "from now on", "going forward", or "in the future". Unlike words like 未来 (mirai), which refer to a distant future, 今後 has a more immediate sense, related to actions or situations that begin in the present and extend forward.

In Portuguese, there is no exact translation, but the concept is similar to expressions like "from now on" or "henceforth." This word is often used in formal speeches, business plans, and even in everyday conversations when someone wants to mark a change in direction. For example, a boss might say 今後もよろしくお願いします (Kongo mo yoroshiku onegaishimasu) to emphasize the continuation of good work.

Everyday and formal use of 今後

In professional environments, 今後 appears frequently in emails, meetings, and strategic documents. Japanese companies often use it when setting goals or reviewing processes, as in phrases like 今後はこの方法で進めます (Kongo wa kono houhou de susumemasu) – "From now on, we will proceed with this method." This use reflects the Japanese culture of planning and continuous improvement.

In daily life, the word also appears in lighter contexts. If someone decides to adopt a new habit, like studying Japanese every day, they can say 今後は毎日勉強します (Kongo wa mainichi benkyou shimasu). The choice of 今後 here indicates a firm decision, unlike これから (kore kara), which sounds more casual and open to changes.

Tips for memorizing and not getting confused

An effective way to 今後 is to associate it with commitments or promises. Since it often appears in planning contexts, creating personal sentences like "今後、健康に気をつけます" (Kongo, kenkou ni ki o tsukemasu – "From now on, I will take care of my health") helps to internalize its meaning. Another tip is to notice its usage in dramas or animes with corporate themes, where the word is quite common.

It's common to confuse 今後 with これから (kore kara) or 将来 (shourai), but each has a different weight. While 今後 is more assertive and connected to the immediate present, 将来 refers to a more distant future, such as in life plans. On the other hand, これから is versatile and less formal, and can even be used to indicate the next step in a sequence of actions. Paying attention to these details helps avoid common mistakes among students.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• これから (kore kara) - From now on, near future
• 今後 (kongo) - Future, from now on
• 今後の (kongo no) - Of the future, related to the future
• 今後は (kongo wa) - In the future, from now on
• 今後のこと (kongo no koto) - Things of the future, future questions
• 今後の展開 (kongo no tenkai) - Future developments
• 今後の予定 (kongo no yotei) - Future plans
• 今後の見通し (kongo no mitoshi) - Previsões futuras
• 今後の方針 (kongo no hoshin) - Políticas futuras
• 今後の展望 (kongo no tenbou) - Future perspectives
• 今後の展示 (kongo no tenji) - Future screenings
• 今後の動向 (kongo no doukou) - Future trends
• 今後の方向性 (kongo no houkousei) - Future direction
• 今後の取り組み (kongo no torikumi) - Future initiatives
• 今後の課題 (kongo no kadai) - Future challenges
• 今後の施策 (kongo no shisaku) - Future measures
• 今後の展開に向けて (kongo no tenkai ni mukete) - Toward future developments
• 今後の発展に向けて (kongo no hatten ni mukete) - Towards future development
• 今後の発展を目指して (kongo no hatten wo mezashite) - Aiming for future development
• 今後の発展に貢献する (kongo no hatten ni kouken suru) - Contributing to future development
• 今後の成長に期待 (kongo no seichou ni kitai) - Future growth expectations