ここ
koko[ko̞ko̞]
The English phrase "right here" can be expressed in Japanese as ここ (koko).
ここ is used to refer to the exact place where the speaker is currently located. While ここ means 'here', it is often used in Japanese to imply 'right here' depending on the context, without needing an extra word for 'right'.
Which one should you use?
If you want to emphasize the 'exactness' of the location (literally 'exactly here'), you can use まさにここ.
How do you pronounce it?
koko
Did you know?
- The word ここ is part of a rhythmic pattern in Japanese demonstratives known as the 'ko-so-a-do' system. This system organizes not just places but also things and questions using these four initial sounds.
- In Japanese, the concept of 'here' can be much more psychological than physical. A speaker might use ここ to refer to 'this point in time' or 'this current stage of a situation' rather than a spot on a map.
- Japanese uses a three-part system for location based on the speaker, the listener and a third party. While ここ is 'here' for the speaker, そこ is 'there' near the listener and あそこ is 'over there' away from both.
Examples in context
- ここで車を止めてください。Pull over right here.This example shows how to use ここ when asking someone to stop a car.Tatoeba #224550 by bunbuku, translation #61885 by CM
- 以前はちょうどここにお寺があった。There used to be a temple right here.This sentence uses ここ to describe a location where a temple used to exist.Tatoeba #191178 by bunbuku, translation #28338 by Swift
- 川はここでわずかに右に曲がっている。The river bends slightly to the right here.This is useful for describing a specific point where a river bends using ここ.Tatoeba #141370 by tommy__san, translation #273201 by sundown
- 3 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Yui and Kenta are looking for a specific location in a park.
- 結衣 Yuiここに着いたよ。Koko ni tsuita yo.We arrived right here.
- 健太 Kentaあ、ここが目的地だね。A, koko ga mokutekichi dane.Ah, this is the destination.
- 結衣 Yui健太さん、荷物をここに置いていい？Kenta-san, nimotsu o koko ni oite ii?Kenta, can I put my bags right here?
- 健太 Kentaうん、いいよ。Un, ii yo.Yeah, that's fine.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ここ, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
