現在

• Reading: げんざい
• Romaji: genzai
• Kanji breakdown: 現 (gen/arawa) — present, appear; 在 (zai/a) — exist, be at
• Pronunciation: /geɴ.za.i/

Meaning

The present; present time; now. The current point in time.

A noun (also used adverbially and as a noun modifier) indicating the current moment or state. More formal than 今 (ima, now). Common expressions: 現在地 (genzai-chi, current location), 現在進行中 (genzai shinkou-chuu, currently in progress). Often used in news, reports, and official announcements. In Buddhism, the present realm alongside past and future.

Examples

1. 現在の気温は30度を超えています。 The current temperature exceeds 30 degrees.
2. このプロジェクトは現在進行中です。 This project is currently in progress.
3. 現在のところ問題は見つかっていない。 So far, no problems have been found.

Usage Guide

Context: news, reports, official communication

Tone: formal

Origin & History

Compound of 現 (gen, present/appear) and 在 (zai, exist/be at). Literally 'existing in the present', emphasising what is here and now.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal