いざ

• Reading: いざ
• Romaji: iza
• Pronunciation: /i.za/

Meaning

Now; come on; well then. Used when facing a decisive moment or urging action.

An adverb and interjection used in two main ways: (1) as a rallying cry before action, like 'now then!' or 'let's go!' (いざ出発!), and (2) to describe a critical or decisive moment, often in the pattern いざという時 (iza to iu toki, when push comes to shove/in a pinch). Carries a sense of urgency and determination.

Examples

1. いざという時に頼りになる友人がいると心強い。 It's reassuring to have a friend you can count on when push comes to shove.
2. 準備は完了した。いざ出発だ。 Preparations are complete. Now then — let's go!
3. いざ本番になると緊張して頭が真っ白になった。 When the moment of truth arrived, I got so nervous my mind went completely blank.

Usage Guide

Context: decisive moments, preparation, encouragement

Tone: determined

Origin & History

From classical Japanese いざ, used as an exclamation to rouse or summon courage. Appears frequently in classical literature and samurai narratives as a battle cry or call to action.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal