Japanese · Numbers & Time

ima

Now / the present moment

Beginnernoun

Definition

Refers to the current moment in time. Commonly used in phrases like 今何時ですか (What time is it now?).

Example

今、何時ですか?

What time is it now?

Etymology

'今' (ima) originates from Old Japanese roots, referring primarily to the present time. Its usage reflects a more philosophical notion of the present across different cultural references.

How & Where It’s Used

'今' (ima) is used in both informal and formal settings, prevalent in spoken Japanese and everyday conversations as well as in written language.

Watch “Now / the present moment” pronunciation on YouTube
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