What it means
いよいよ is an adverb that shows a gradual development reaching an important or expected stage. Depending on context, it means “increasingly,” “more and more,” or “finally/at last.” It often appears when a change has become clearly noticeable or when an anticipated event is about to happen. It can modify positive or negative developments, and it is commonly used with changes, deadlines, seasons, and major events.
Usage note
いよいよ can mean either a continuing increase or the arrival of a decisive moment, so the surrounding context determines the best English translation. It is different from とうとう, which usually emphasizes that an event has finally occurred after a long process.
How to use it
いよいよ試験の日が近づきました。
The day of the examination has finally drawn near.
いよいよ試験の日が近づいた。
The day of the examination has finally drawn near.
Example sentences
秋が深まり、いよいよ朝晩の冷え込みが厳しくなってきた。
As autumn deepens, the chill in the mornings and evenings is becoming increasingly severe.
長雨が続き、いよいよ川の水位が危険な高さに近づいている。
With the prolonged rain continuing, the river's water level is increasingly approaching a dangerous height.
春の発表会