now
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /nˈaʊ/
US
- /ˈnaʊ/
Description
- at this moment
- currently
- immediately
- at present
- at this time
`Now` usually points to the present moment, the time that is happening as we speak or think. You use it for things happening at this time: "I am busy now." You also use it when something should happen immediately: "Come here now."
It can also compare the present with another time: "I understand it better now." Sometimes it helps guide a conversation: "Now, let's look at the next step." And in phrases like "Now, now," it can sound gentle, calm, or slightly firm.
The word `now` mainly means the present time, the moment that is happening at this point. It is one of the most common ways to talk about what is happening in the present: "I can't talk now," "We are leaving now," or "She lives in Madrid now."
It often adds a sense of immediacy. In "Do it now" or "You need to stop now," the meaning is not just "at the present time" but also "without waiting." Because of that, it is very common in commands, warnings, and urgent requests.
`Now` is also used when we compare the present with the past: "I was shy before, but now I feel more confident." In sentences like "Now that you are here, we can begin," it connects a present situation to what happens next. It can also appear in questions such as "What now?" where it means "what should happen next?"
Another common use is in speech and writing to move the listener to a new point: "Now, let me explain," or "Now, about your question." In repeated forms like "Now, now," it can sound calming, warning, or gently correcting, depending on the tone.
So this is a small word with several jobs. It can point to the present, push for immediate action, compare one time with another, or guide the flow of a conversation.
Examples
- 1
Present situation
I'm busy now, but I can call you later.
- 2
Immediate request
Please send the file now, not after lunch.
- 3
Current home
We live in Boston now.
- 4
Changed habit
I used to hate coffee, but now I drink it every morning.
- 5
Expected arrival
The train should be here by now.
Phrase
by now
before or at this time
- 6
Temporary plan
I'm staying with my sister for now.
Phrase
for now
for a short time, until things change
- 7
Future rule
From now on, please lock the door when you leave.
Phrase
from now on
starting now and continuing
- 8
Changed situation
Now that the kids are asleep, we can talk.
Pattern
now that + situation
because something has happened or changed
- 9
Until present
I haven't heard from him up to now.
Phrase
up to now
until this point
- 10
Occasional habit
Every now and then, we go out for breakfast.
Phrase
every now and then
sometimes
- 11
New thought
Now, where did I put my keys?
Usage
now can introduce a new thought or question
- 12
Topic shift
Now for the main question: how much will it cost?
Pattern
now for + topic/activity
used to introduce the next topic or activity
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- nownounadverb