Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Now" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "now", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
今
いま (ima)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
今さら
いまさら (imasara)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "now" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 今 and 今さら.
In Japanese, 今 (いま (ima)) is typically associated with "now" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Refers to the current moment or present time. Can be used as an adverb..
On the other hand, 今さら (いまさら (imasara)) maps to "now (when it is already too late); at this late hour; (not) at all" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Expresses a feeling of 'it's too late now' or 'what's the point now?', implying regret, futility, or a sense of being out of place.. A literal translation of "now" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "今"
今、何をしていますか。
What are you doing now?
Bilingual Context for "今さら"
今さら後悔しても、もう遅い。
It's too late to regret it now.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ 、何をしていますか。" (Meaning: "What are you doing now?")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "今" fits here because it means "now" in the context of: "What are you doing now?". "今さら" represents "now (when it is already too late); at this late hour; (not) at all".