就目前而言...
jiu muqian eryan...
As of now...
Literally: 就 (with regard to) 目前 (present moment) 而言 (speaking of)
In 15 Seconds
- Means 'as of now' or 'for the time being.'
- Implies the situation might change in the future.
- Commonly used in professional and semi-formal conversations.
Meaning
This phrase is your go-to way to say 'as things stand right now.' It implies that while the situation is true today, it might change later on.
Key Examples
3 of 6Updating a boss on a project
就目前而言，项目进展得很顺利。
As of now, the project is progressing very smoothly.
Talking about a new relationship
就目前而言，我们相处得还不错。
As of now, we are getting along pretty well.
Discussing a broken phone
就目前而言，它还能用，但屏幕碎了。
As of now, it still works, but the screen is cracked.
Cultural Background
Using this phrase is seen as a sign of being a thoughtful and cautious professional.
Use it to hedge
Always use this when you want to avoid being 100% certain.
In 15 Seconds
- Means 'as of now' or 'for the time being.'
- Implies the situation might change in the future.
- Commonly used in professional and semi-formal conversations.
What It Means
Think of 就目前而言 as a snapshot in time. It tells your listener, 'This is the truth for this exact second.' It focuses on the current status while subtly hinting at future uncertainty. It is cleaner and more sophisticated than just saying 'now.'
How To Use It
You usually place this phrase at the very beginning of a sentence. It sets the stage for the update you are about to give. You can also place it after the subject if you want to sound a bit more rhythmic. It acts like a verbal frame for your statement. Use it when you want to sound objective and balanced.
When To Use It
Use it when discussing plans that aren't set in stone. It is perfect for professional updates or health status checks. If a friend asks how your new diet is going, this phrase is your best friend. It works great in business meetings to describe project progress. Use it when you want to avoid making a 100% permanent promise.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it for things that never change. You wouldn't say 'As of now, the sun rises in the east.' That sounds robotic and weird. Avoid it in high-intensity emotional arguments where it might sound too cold or detached. If you are just hanging out and want to say 'right now,' just use 现在. This phrase is a bit too 'fancy' for a casual 'What are you doing?' text.
Cultural Background
Chinese culture often emphasizes the fluid nature of time and circumstances. Using 就目前而言 shows a level of humility and realism. It acknowledges that we don't have a crystal ball. It reflects a 'wait and see' attitude that is very common in Chinese social and business circles. It helps you save face if things change later.
Common Variations
You might hear people say 目前来看 which is a bit more visual, like 'looking at the current situation.' There is also 暂时来说 which means 'temporarily speaking.' If you want to be super brief, just 目前 works. But 就目前而言 is the 'gold standard' for sounding like a polished, thoughtful speaker.
Usage Notes
This phrase is neutral but leans slightly towards formal. It is perfect for workplace communication or when you want to sound thoughtful in a serious conversation.
Use it to hedge
Always use this when you want to avoid being 100% certain.
Examples
6就目前而言，项目进展得很顺利。
As of now, the project is progressing very smoothly.
Professional and provides a status update without over-promising.
就目前而言，我们相处得还不错。
As of now, we are getting along pretty well.
A cautious but positive way to describe a new romance.
就目前而言，它还能用，但屏幕碎了。
As of now, it still works, but the screen is cracked.
Describes a temporary state of a physical object.
就目前而言，我还没吃火锅，但我不敢保证晚餐。
As of now, I haven't eaten hotpot, but I can't guarantee dinner.
Uses the phrase's inherent uncertainty for comedic effect.
就目前而言，我还没打算搬家。
As of now, I don't have plans to move.
Clarifies current intent while acknowledging things could change.
就目前而言，你的身体状况非常稳定。
As of now, your physical condition is very stable.
Provides professional reassurance based on current data.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
______, 我们没有更好的方案。
The sentence requires a temporal hedge to start the statement.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercises______, 我们没有更好的方案。
The sentence requires a temporal hedge to start the statement.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, it sounds too formal.
Related Phrases
目前来看
synonymLooking at it from the current moment
