Meaning and Usage
"이제야" is an adverb used to emphasize that something happens later than expected or after a delay. It often conveys a sense of relief, surprise, or regret that the event or realization did not occur sooner.
Common Contexts
You will frequently hear "이제야" when someone completes a task late, understands something after a delay, or when a situation changes finally after waiting.
Collocations and Patterns
- "이제야 + verb" — to express that an action is happening only now, after some delay.
- "이제야 알았다/깨달았다" — to say "I only now realized" or "finally understood."
- "이제야 끝났다" — to indicate something has just finished after a long wait.
Register and Nuance
"이제야" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It often carries a slightly emotional tone, such as relief or mild frustration.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "이제야" with "이제," which means "now" without the nuance of delay or lateness. Remember, "이제야" stresses that something is happening later than expected, not just at the present moment.