そろそろ
そろそろ
adverb
soon; gradually; it's about time
1.
soon, before long
Indicates that something is expected to happen in the near future.
2.
it's about time (to do something)
Suggests that the time has come or is approaching to do something.
そろそろ決めないと。
It's about time to decide.
そろそろ is an adverb meaning 'soon' or 'it's about time.'
Position: Usually at the beginning of a sentence or before the verb.
[Register: Neutral]
Usage notes:
- Very commonly used when suggesting it's time to do something (polite way to signal departure, etc.)
- Implies awareness of time or appropriate timing
- Can suggest gentle urgency
Similar expressions:
- そろそろ vs. もうすぐ: もうすぐ simply states 'very soon'; そろそろ often implies 'it's about time' or suggests action.
- そろそろ vs. まもなく: まもなく is more formal and objective ('shortly'); そろそろ is conversational with nuance of readiness.
Common usage: Very frequently used when leaving a gathering: そろそろ失礼します (I should be going soon).
Orthography: Usually written in hiragana.