WordGarden.iotoday
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /tədˈeɪ/
US
- /təˈdeɪ/
Meanings
Adverb
on this day; during the current day
Noun
the present time or current era
Beyond the definition
"Today" feels simple, doesn't it? But if you pause for a moment, it points to the day we are living in right now, between yesterday and tomorrow. We use "today" when making plans ("What are you doing today?"), talking about events ("Today was a good day."), or marking special moments ("Today is my birthday!").
Sometimes "today" is not only about the calendar date. It can also mean "in modern times." You might hear someone say, "Compared to today's technology, computers in the 1980s seem primitive." So "today" can point to one particular day or to the present time in general.
The word "today" refers to the current day—the 24-hour period we are currently experiencing. It's a fundamental concept in how we organize our lives and understand time. We use it constantly, often without even thinking about it: "Today I will finish this project," or "I'm looking forward to today's meeting."
But "today" isn't always just about the date on the calendar. It can also function as an adverb meaning "currently" or "at present." For example: "Today, many people rely on smartphones for communication," which means nowadays or in this current era. This usage emphasizes a trend or situation that exists in the present time.
Historically, "today" comes from Old English roots meaning "on this day." It's a combination of "to" (acting as a preposition meaning "on") and "dæg" (meaning "day").
Think about how often you use it! From daily routines ("I have a lot to do today.") to momentous events ("Today marks a turning point in history."), "today" anchors us in the present, reminding us that each day is unique and precious. It's more than just a word; it's a constant companion throughout our lives.
Examples
- 1
Daily plans
I'm staying home today.
- 2
Scheduling
Do you have time to talk today?
- 3
Holiday closure
The store is closed today because of the holiday.
- 4
Possessive form
Today's lesson is about phrasal verbs.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Weather forecast
I haven't checked today's weather forecast yet.
- 6
App change
As of today, the app is free to download.
- Phraseas of today
starting today
- 7
Modern work
Many people today work with teams in different countries.
- 8
Historical influence
Some of the rules from that time still influence us today.
- 9
Current issues
We need answers to the challenges of today.
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- todaynounadverb
Forms
- todayspluralnounadverb