目前

• Pinyin: mù qián
• Hanzi breakdown: 目 = pictograph of an eye; 前 = 止 (stop/foot) + 刂 (knife), meaning forward or in front

Meaning

At present; currently; for now. Refers to the current situation or time.

A formal way of saying 'right now' or 'at this point'. Very common in news, reports, and formal conversation. Often used at the beginning of a sentence to set the time frame. More formal than 现在, which works in all registers. Frequently paired with 来看 (目前来看 = as things stand now).

Examples

1. 目前我们还没有收到他的回复。 We have not yet received his reply at present.
2. 目前的情况比去年好多了。 The current situation is much better than last year.
3. 他目前住在上海，下个月搬到北京。 He currently lives in Shanghai and will move to Beijing next month.

Usage Guide

Context: news, reports, formal conversation

Tone: informative

Do Say

• 目前一切都很顺利。(At present everything is going smoothly.)
• 目前来看，这个方案是最好的。(As things stand, this plan is the best.)

Don't Say

• 我目前在吃饭呢。(Don't use 目前 for momentary actions in casual speech — it sounds overly formal. Use 现在 or 正在 instead.)

Origin & History

目 means eye; 前 means in front of. Together they mean what is before one's eyes — the present moment.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal