Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Recently" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "recently", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
最近
さいきん (saikin)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
この頃
このごろ (konogoro)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "recently" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 最近 and この頃.
In Japanese, 最近 (さいきん (saikin)) is typically associated with "recently, lately, these days" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Refers to a period of time that has just passed or is currently occurring. Can be used with both past and present tense verbs..
On the other hand, この頃 (このごろ (konogoro)) maps to "recently, nowadays, these days" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Refers to a period of time around the present. Implies a situation or trend observed "these days." Similar to 「最近」. A literal translation of "recently" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "最近"
最近、日本語の勉強を始めました。
I recently started studying Japanese.
Bilingual Context for "この頃"
この頃、健康に気をつけています。
These days, I'm paying attention to my health.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ 、日本語の勉強を始めました。" (Meaning: "I recently started studying Japanese.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "最近" fits here because it means "recently, lately, these days" in the context of: "I recently started studying Japanese.". "この頃" represents "recently, nowadays, these days".