2 Japanese words read ima
ima (いま) is shared by 2 distinct words, each with its own kanji and meaning. Jump to: 今 · 居間.
今
いまNow, the present moment
N5noun·ima
How to remember it
Picture the strokes as an arrow pointing to the present moment, 'ima'.
Example sentences
今、何時ですか。
いま、なんじですか。
What time is it now?
今すぐ行きます。
いますぐいきます。
I'll go right now.
Usage
Time noun usable adverbially; combines with 朝, 日, 週 to mean 'this...'.
Related words
今朝今日今度今週
居間
いまLiving room, family room
N3noun·ima
How to remember it
居 (to stay/be) + 間 (room) — the room where the family gathers and stays.
Example sentences
家族は居間でテレビを見る。
かぞくはいまでてれびをみる。
The family watches TV in the living room.
居間に新しいソファを置いた。
いまにあたらしいそふぁをおいた。
I put a new sofa in the living room.
Usage
Traditional term; リビング is more common in modern homes.
Related words
リビング台所寝室部屋