If you want to tell someone that you’re in the middle of doing something—right at that moment—Japanese has a grammar point for that: ている + ところ. Let’s look at how to express that something is actively happening now.
～ている + ところ
In the Middle of Doing
JLPT Level: N4
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How to Use It
This form is used when something is currently happening. It emphasizes that the action is going on right now—not just recently, but in the moment.
It builds on the regular ～ている (progressive) form, but by adding ところ, it specifies the exact timing. This is especially useful if someone calls or walks in while you’re busy.
Usage Pattern
[Verb (て-form)] + いるところ + です
Example 1
今、宿題をしているところです。
いま しゅくだい を している ところ です。
Ima shukudai o shiteiru tokoro desu.
I’m in the middle of doing my homework.
Example 2
ちょうど料理を作っているところです。
ちょうど りょうり を つくっている ところ です。
Chōdo ryōri o tsukutteiru tokoro desu.
I’m right in the middle of cooking.
Example 3
今、電話しているところだよ。
いま でんわ している ところ だ よ。
Ima denwa shiteiru tokoro da yo.
I’m on the phone right now.
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