つい

adverb

unintentionally, just (now), inadvertently

See also: ついつい (unintentionally (emphatic))

1. unintentionally, inadvertently, carelessly

Doing something without thinking; an action done despite not intending to.

I couldn't help laughing.

I accidentally ate too much.

I inadvertently spoke my true feelings.

I sometimes find myself looking at my phone during work.

Even though I intend to stop, I can't help staying up late.

つい〜てしまう pattern emphasizes lack of self-control

2. just (now), a moment ago

Something that happened very recently.

They just came a moment ago.

It arrived just a moment ago.

We just met the other day, but I already feel nostalgic.

I just recently moved to this town, so I don't know the nearby shops well yet.

I thought I had just come to Japan, but I was surprised that three years had already passed.

Sense 1 almost always ends in てしまう and carries mild regret or an excuse: one knew better but gave in.
Sense 2 is used only before a time word: ついさっき, つい先(さき)ほど, つい最近(さいきん), つい先日(せんじつ), ついこの前(まえ).

Related Words

core

Added 2026.1.11 19:56 · Revised 2026.10.13 3:57

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