1.
moment by moment; with each passing moment; constantly changing
Describes something that changes or progresses continuously over time, with noticeable differences at each moment. Often used for situations, conditions, or states that evolve rapidly.
A four-character compound (四字熟語) that repeats 時 (time) and 刻 (moment) to emphasize continuous, ongoing change. It has a literary, slightly formal tone and is especially common in news and written language.
Usage
Almost always followed by the particle と: 時々刻々と変わる. The most common verb partner is 変わる (to change). Note that this is different from 時々 (sometimes), despite sharing the same kanji.
Common collocations
- 時々刻々と変わる — to change moment by moment
- 時々刻々と変化する — to change continuously
- 時々刻々と迫る — to approach moment by moment