このごろ

• Reading: このごろ
• Romaji: konogoro
• Pronunciation: /ko.no.go.ɾo/

Meaning

These days; nowadays; recently; lately. Refers to the current period in contrast to before.

A time adverb indicating a recent ongoing period — similar to 最近 (saikin) but slightly more colloquial. The kanji form この頃 is also common. Used to describe changes, trends, or current states that differ from before. Often placed at the beginning of a sentence.

Examples

1. このごろ朝が寒くなってきましたね。 The mornings have been getting cold lately, haven't they?
2. このごろ日本語の勉強が楽しくなってきた。 Studying Japanese has been getting fun these days.
3. このごろ忙しくて友達に会えません。 I've been so busy lately that I can't see my friends.

Usage Guide

Context: seasonal changes, lifestyle, conversation

Tone: reflective

Origin & History

Combines この (kono, this) and ごろ/頃 (goro, approximate time/period). 頃 originally referred to a time period or season. Together: 'this period' — the time we are currently in.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal