jigeum

Jigeum is a Korean word that translates to "now" or "at this moment" in English. It is a common adverb used in everyday conversation and writing to indicate the present time. The word is composed of two parts: "ji" which refers to "this" or "here," and "geum" which signifies "time" or "now." Therefore, literally, jigeum emphasizes the immediacy of the current point in time.

This term is frequently used to express urgency, to describe ongoing actions, or to simply refer to the present. For example, one might say "jigeum meogeoyo" which means "I am eating now." It can also be used to preface a statement that requires immediate attention, such as "jigeum mannaya haeyo," meaning "we need to meet now." The versatility of jigeum makes it an essential part of the Korean lexicon for conveying a sense of the present.