Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "This" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "this", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
今ごろ
いまごろ (imagoro)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
今回
こんかい (konkai)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "this" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 今ごろ and 今回.
In Japanese, 今ごろ (いまごろ (imagoro)) is typically associated with "about this time; around now; by now" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a time point that is 'around now' or 'around that time'.
On the other hand, 今回 (こんかい (konkai)) maps to "this time" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to the current occasion or instance, distinguishing it from previous or future occasions. Often used to set the context for a specific event or action.. A literal translation of "this" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "今ごろ"
今ごろ彼は家に帰っているはずだ。
He should be home by now.
Bilingual Context for "今回"
今回の試験は前回より難しかった。
This exam was more difficult than the last one.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ 彼は家に帰っているはずだ。" (Meaning: "He should be home by now.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "今ごろ" fits here because it means "about this time; around now; by now" in the context of: "He should be home by now.". "今回" represents "this time".