现在

• Pinyin: xiàn zài
• Hanzi breakdown: 现 = 王 (jade) + 见 (to see) — something visible/present; 在 = existence/location

Meaning

Now; at present; currently. Refers to the current moment in time.

One of the most frequently used time words in Chinese. Can be placed at the beginning or middle of a sentence. Used to talk about what is happening right now, to make requests, or to contrast with the past or future.

Examples

1. 现在几点了？ What time is it now?
2. 我现在很忙。 I'm very busy right now.
3. 你现在在哪儿？ Where are you now?

Usage Guide

Context: time, everyday

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 你现在有时间吗？(Do you have time now?)
• 现在出发吧。(Let's leave now.)

Don't Say

• 在现在我很忙。(Unnatural — don't add 在 before 现在; just say 现在我很忙 or 我现在很忙)

Origin & History

A compound of 现 (to appear/present) and 在 (to be at/exist). Together they express the concept of 'being present at this moment.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal