正在

• Pinyin: zhèng zài
• Hanzi breakdown: 正 = correct/just now; 在 = 才 (talent) + 土 (earth) — to exist, to be at, in the process of

Meaning

In the process of; currently doing. Emphasises that an action is happening right now.

A combined adverb of 正 (just now) + 在 (at/in the process of). The most explicit way to express an ongoing action in Chinese, equivalent to the English present progressive. Placed before a verb: 我正在学中文. Can be shortened to just 正 or 在 in casual speech.

Examples

1. 我正在做作业。 I'm doing my homework.
2. 他们正在开会。 They are having a meeting.
3. 妈妈正在做饭。 Mum is cooking.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 我正在学习，请不要打扰我。(I'm studying, please don't disturb me.)
• 他们正在吃晚饭。(They're having dinner right now.)

Don't Say

• 我正在了看书。(Don't add 了 after 正在 — say 我正在看书)

Origin & History

Compound of 正 (just at this moment) + 在 (to be at/in the process of). Together they reinforce the sense of an ongoing action.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal