Translation and Meaning of: 現在 - genzai

The Japanese word 現在 (げんざい) is an essential term for anyone studying the language or interested in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese life. Additionally, we will provide practical tips for memorizing it and understanding its context in different situations. If you are looking for a reliable dictionary to learn Japanese, Suki Nihongo is a great reference.

Meaning and usage of 現在

現在 is often translated as "current" or "present," indicating something that is happening at the moment. Unlike words like 今日 (きょう - today) or 今 (いま - now), 現在 has a more formal tone and is used in contexts that require temporal precision. For example, in news or official documents, it is common to find expressions like 現在の状況 (げんざいのじょうきょう - current situation).

In daily conversations, Japanese people tend to use 今 (いま) more frequently, while 現在 appears more in written texts or formal speeches. This difference in is important for those who want to sound natural when speaking Japanese. The word can also be combined with others, such as 現在地 (げんざいち - current location), which is commonly used in maps and GPS.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The writing of 現在 is composed of two kanji: 現 (げん), which means "to appear" or "to manifest," and 在 (ざい), which carries the sense of "to exist" or "to be present." Together, they form the idea of "what manifests in the present." This combination reflects well the meaning of the word, as it refers to the moment that is happening now.

It is worth noting that 在 also appears in other important words, such as 存在 (そんざい - existence) and 在留 (ざいりゅう - residence). Understanding these radicals can help memorize not only 現在 but also other related . This is a useful strategy for those learning Japanese and looking to expand their vocabulary efficiently.

Tips for memorizing and using 現在

A practical way to fix 現在 is to associate it with concrete situations, such as news reports or work reports. Whenever you hear the word in formal contexts, mentally repeat its meaning and writing. Another tip is to create flashcards with sentences like 現在の時刻は何ですか？ (げんざいのじこくはなんですか？ - What time is it now?).

In addition, pay attention when the word appears in anime or Japanese dramas, especially in more serious or professional scenes. Often, characters use 現在 when talking about statistics, ongoing events, or important updates. Observing these uses helps to internalize the word naturally.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 今 (ima) - now
• 今のところ (ima no tokoro) - At the moment (so far)
• 今現在 (ima genzai) - Currently (present moment)
• 今時点 (ima jiten) - At the current point
• 現在 (genzai) - Present (current time)
• 現時点 (gen jiten) - Current point (present state)
• 現在時刻 (genzai jikoku) - Current time
• 現行 (genkō) - Current (in effect, existing)
• 現在地 (genzai chi) - Current location
• 現在形 (genzai kei) - Present tense form (in grammar)
• 現在進行形 (genzai shinkō kei) - Present continuous form
• 現在形式 (genzai keishiki) - Form of the present (structure or format)
• 現在形態 (genzaikeitai) - Current form (current state or condition)
• 現在形容詞 (genzai keiyōshi) - Adjective in the present
• 現在形容動詞 (genzai keiyō dōshi) - Adjectival verb in the present
• 現在分詞 (genzai bunsushi) - Present participle
• 現在時制 (genzai jisei) - Present tense (in grammar)
• 現在時制動詞 (genzai jisei dōshi) - Verb in the present tense
• 現在時制形容詞 (genzai jisei keiyōshi) - Adjective in the present tense
• 現在時制形容動詞 (genzai jisei keiyō dōshi) - Adjectival verb in the present tense
• 現在時制分詞 (genzai jisei bunsushi) - Present participle
• 現在時制名詞 (genzai jisei meishi) - Noun in the present tense
• 現在時制副詞 (genzai jisei fukushi) - Adverb in the present tense
• 現在時制接続詞 (genzai jisei setsuzoku shi) - Conjunction in the present tense