Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Now" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "now", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
とりあえず
とりあえず (toriaezu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
いざ
いざ (iza)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "now" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between とりあえず and いざ.
In Japanese, とりあえず (とりあえず (toriaezu)) is typically associated with "for now, for the time being, first of all" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to express doing something as a temporary measure or as a first step before something more complete or permanent. Often implies 'let's do this first'..
On the other hand, いざ (いざ (iza)) maps to "Now, come on; at that critical moment" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents An interjection or adverb. Often used to prompt action. A literal translation of "now" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "とりあえず"
とりあえず、水を一杯ください。
For now, please give me a glass of water.
Bilingual Context for "いざ"
いざという時に困らないように、準備しておこう。
Let's prepare so we won't be in trouble when the time comes.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ 、水を一杯ください。" (Meaning: "For now, please give me a glass of water.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "とりあえず" fits here because it means "for now, for the time being, first of all" in the context of: "For now, please give me a glass of water.". "いざ" represents "Now, come on; at that critical moment".