When learning how to say “now” in Korean, you’ll immediately face a common challenge: the distinction between 지금 vs. 이제. Both words translate to “now” in English, but they are not interchangeable.
This difference between jigeum and ije is one of the trickiest nuances for new learners. Using the wrong one can make your Korean sound unnatural or even confusing.
Today, we’ll explore the Jigeum vs Ije debate, clarify the 지금 (jigeum) meaning, and explain when it’s appropriate to use each of these essential Korean words for now.
Why is the 지금 vs. 이제 Difference So Hard?
The main reason the difference between jigeum and ije is so difficult for English speakers is that English is “lazy” with the word “now.”
In English, “now” can mean two completely different things:
- A specific point in time: “I am eating now.” (At this very second)
- A change of state: “I am full now.” (I wasn’t before, but a change occurred, and now I am full).
Korean forces you to be more specific. You cannot use the same word for both scenarios. You are not just learning new vocabulary; you are learning a new, more precise way to describe the concept of “now.”
Meaning and Usage of “지금”
“지금” refers to the exact moment of the present. It emphasizes this specific point in time, excluding both the past and the future. When you use “지금,” you’re referring to a single moment in time, often with a clear focus on right now.
Examples:
- 지금 밖에 비가 오고 있어요. (It’s raining outside right now.)
- 지금 바로 시작합시다. (Let’s start right now.)
- 저는 지금 이 순간을 즐기고 싶어요. (I want to enjoy this moment right now.)
In these sentences, “지금” is used to highlight something happening at this very moment, or something that is about to start immediately. For example, when a friend calls and asks, “지금 뭐 하고 있어?” they’re asking what you are doing at this exact moment.
Meaning and Usage of “이제”
“이제,” on the other hand, refers to a new present that has arrived after some passage of time. It often indicates a transition or a shift in situation, where something has changed or concluded, and you are now in a new phase.
Examples:
- 이제 비가 그쳤으니 나가자. (Now that the rain has stopped, let’s go out.)
- 이제 막 출발하려고 해요. (I’m just about to leave now.)
- 이제 우리 차례예요. (Now it’s our turn.)
In these examples, “이제” emphasizes a change or transition. For instance, when you say, “이제 밥 먹으러 가자,” it implies that something has ended (perhaps work or a previous activity), and you’re now ready to transition to eating.
Key Differences Between “지금” and “이제”
To sum up:
“지금” refers to the present moment without any connection to the past or future. It’s purely about this moment in time.
“이제” is used when there’s been a change or transition, and you’re referring to the present moment after something has shifted or ended.
Why It’s Important to Distinguish “지금” and “이제”
Understanding the difference between these two words allows you to use Korean more accurately and naturally. Their subtle nuances can reveal what the speaker is emphasizing in a particular situation.
For example:
- “지금 출발할 거야?” asks whether you’re about to leave at this very moment.
- “이제 출발할 거야?” asks if you’re ready to leave now that everything is prepared or something else has finished.
Practical Examples in Daily Life
With friends:
“지금 만나?” = Are we meeting right now? (immediate action)
“이제 만나?” = Are we meeting now that something is finished?
At work:
“지금 회의 시작해도 되나요?” = Can we start the meeting right now?
“이제 회의 시작해도 되나요?” = Can we start the meeting now that everything is ready?
➤ Both “지금” and “이제” indicate the present, but their contexts and nuances are different. “지금” strictly refers to the current moment, while “이제” suggests that a change or transition has occurred, leading to the present moment. By understanding these differences, you can communicate more precisely and naturally in Korean!
