今行くよ
ima iku yo
The Japanese phrase for "here I come" is 今行くよ (ima iku yo).
This phrase is used to notify someone that you are beginning to move toward them.
Which one should you use?
While English uses the verb "come" to indicate movement toward a listener, Japanese uses the verb iku (to go) because the speaker is moving away from their current location.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
When speaking to a superior or someone you are not close with, you should use the polite form 今行きます.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase 今行くよ, the sentence-final particle yo is used to add a sense of declaration or to ensure the listener hears your intent.
How do you pronounce it?
ima iku yo
Did you know?
- If you were to use the polite version 今行きます to a very close childhood friend, it might sound jokingly formal or even sarcastic. Using high-level politeness in a casual setting is a common way to tease someone in Japan.
- In anime or manga, a character might shout 行くぞ (iku zo) before a battle, which is a masculine, aggressive version of the 'here I come' sentiment.
- The verb iku in 今行くよ is sometimes used as a slang signal to start a shared activity, similar to saying 'here we go' or 'let's do this'.
Examples in context
- 行きますよ！Here I come!
- 行きますよ！お待たせしました！Here I come! Sorry to keep you waiting!
- 今行くよ。Ima iku yo.Here I come.
- 待ってて、今行くよ！Mattete, ima iku yo!Wait for me, here I come!
- あ、今行くよ！A, ima iku yo!Ah, here I come!
Example conversation
Ren calls for Himari from the living room.
- 蓮 Ren陽葵、ご飯だよ！Himari, gohan dayo!Himari, dinner is ready!
- 陽葵 Himari今行くよ、蓮。Ima iku yo, Ren.Here I come, Ren.
- 蓮 Ren早くおいで。Hayaku oide.Come quickly.
- 陽葵 Himariはい、すぐ行く！Hai, sugu iku!Okay, I'm coming right now!
