Quick answer
今 is the kanji for "Now". Its reading is いま (ima). This page includes example sentences and a stroke-order diagram.
Meaning
Now
Also : Present · Current
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Readings
kun = Japanese reading · on = Chinese reading
Practice writing
Trace the kanji stroke by stroke with a visual guide.
Stroke Order
4 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
A covered box with a dot inside — the roof traps the moment within, creating 'now' — this present instant frozen under glass.
いま (ima) sounds like 'I'm-a' — I'm-a here right now, in this present moment.
Example Sentences
今、何をしていますか？
いま、なにをしていますか？
What are you doing now?
今日の晩ご飯はラーメンにしました。最高です！
きょうのばんごはんはらーめんにしました。さいこうです！
I had ramen for dinner tonight. The best!
Vocabulary using 今
Grammar to study at this level
Last updated Jun 18, 2026
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