When combined, 现任 (xiànrèn) literally means “the now/current duty/post,” which logically extends to mean the person currently holding that post—the incumbent.
`现任` reflects the importance of titles, hierarchy, and formal structure in Chinese society. Its usage is a subtle acknowledgment of the official nature of a role and the system it exists within. In Western cultures, especially American culture, there's often an emphasis on the individual. One might say “Joe Biden, the current president.” The focus is often on the person first. While this is also done in Chinese, the use of `现任总统` (“incumbent president”) places a strong emphasis on the formal title and the continuity of the office. It separates the temporary holder of the position from the permanent institution itself. This is different from a general term like `现在 (xiànzài - now)`, which is purely about time. `现任` is about a person's formal status within a specific timeframe. It shows a clear distinction between the person who was in charge before (`前任 qiánrèn`), the person in charge now (`现任 xiànrèn`), and the person who will be next (`继任 jìrèn`), highlighting a structured and orderly transfer of power or responsibility.
`现任` is used in formal contexts. You will rarely, if ever, hear it in casual conversation among friends unless they are specifically discussing politics or corporate affairs.
The connotation is neutral; it is a factual descriptor of a person's current official role.