Definition
As an adverb: right now, just (at this moment), or just (as in I just did something). As an adjective: straight, direct. In everyday conversation, the adverb meaning is by far the most common.
Conjugation / Declension
Adverb — does not change form.
Examples
- Was machst du gerade? — What are you doing right now?
- Ich esse gerade. — I’m eating right now.
- Er ist gerade gegangen. — He just left.
- Ich habe gerade keine Zeit. — I don’t have time right now.
Notes
Gerade is one of those small words that packs a lot of meaning. As “right now” it slots right into the sentence after the verb. As “just” (recent past) it pairs with Perfekt: Ich habe gerade gegessen (I just ate). You’ll hear it constantly in natural speech — a great word to lock in early!