現在 — meaning in English: Current

genzai · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for present

トーナメント

tōnamento

ラウンド

raundo

現在

genzai

農民

nōmin

危険

kiken

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use 現在 (genzai) when discussing current events or situations, whether in news broadcasts or casual conversations. For instance, you might hear it in a news report about the current economic climate or when a friend asks about your current job status.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 現時 (genji), which also means 'current' but is often used in more formal contexts, such as legal or academic discussions. You would choose 現在 for everyday conversations or general descriptions, while 現時 might be more appropriate in official documents.

Culture

The word 現在 (genzai) is derived from the kanji 現, meaning 'to appear' or 'to become visible', and 在, meaning 'to be' or 'exist'. This etymology reflects the idea of being in the present moment, a concept that is highly valued in Japanese culture, where mindfulness and being aware of one's surroundings play a significant role in daily life.

FAQ

Q.What does 現在 mean in English?

現在 (genzai) translates to 'current' in English, referring to something that is happening right now or the present time.

Q.How is 現在 used in a sentence?

You might say 現在の天気は晴れです (genzai no tenki wa hare desu), meaning 'The current weather is clear.' This shows how the word can describe present conditions.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 現在?

A common mistake is to confuse 現在 (genzai) with 過去 (kako), which means 'past.' Remember, 現在 specifically refers to the present, so ensure your context aligns with the current timeframe.

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