지금 (ji-geum, jigeum)
'지금' (jigeum) is a fundamental Korean adverb meaning 'now' or 'at this moment.' It is used in both casual and formal contexts.
Core meaning and shades learners miss.
'지금' is an adverb that means the current moment or right now.
Nuances
When to use
Everyday conversation, Business meeting, News reporting
In context
'지금' typically appears at the beginning or middle of a sentence to emphasize the present time. It is naturally used in everyday conversation, news, and business contexts.
지금 몇 시예요?
ji-geum myeoch si-ye-yo?, ji geum myeoch si ye yo?
'지금' correctly indicates the present time in the sentence.
지금부터 시작합시다.
ji-geum-bu-teo si-jak-hap-si-da., ji geum bu teo si jak hap si da.
'지금부터' means starting from now, fitting the context.
나는 지금 밥을 먹었어.
na-neun ji-geum bap-eul meok-eoss-eo., na neun ji geum bap eul meok eoss eo.
'먹었어' is past tense, conflicting with '지금' meaning present.
지금 가고 싶어요.
ji-geum ga-go sip-eo-yo., ji geum ga go sip eo yo.
'지금' naturally expresses the present desire in the sentence.
내일 지금 만나요.
nae-il ji-geum man-na-yo., nae il ji geum man na yo.
'지금' means now, so it contradicts '내일' (tomorrow).
지금 바로 전화해 주세요.
ji-geum ba-ro jeon-hwa-hae ju-se-yo., ji geum ba ro jeon hwa hae ju se yo.
'지금 바로' appropriately requests immediate action.
What is the most accurate meaning of '지금'?
Which sentence is inappropriate when using '지금'?
Which sentence with '지금' is correct?
