Now: meaning, definitions and examples

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now

 

[ naʊ ]

Adverb / Conjunction
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adverb

at the present time

At the present time or moment. Used to emphasize that something is happening or is the case at the moment of speaking.

Synonyms

at the moment, currently, presently.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
now

Used to indicate the present time or moment. It is the most versatile and can be employed in both casual and formal speech.

  • I am busy right now
  • Now is the time to act
currently

Used to describe ongoing actions or states, often in professional, formal, or written contexts.

  • The company is currently hiring new employees
  • I am currently reading a very interesting book
presently

Used to refer to the immediate present or near future. It is more formal and less commonly used in everyday conversation.

  • The manager is presently unavailable
  • He will be back presently
at the moment

Typically used for describing temporary situations or states occurring in the present, often implying that changes might occur soon.

  • She can't talk on the phone at the moment
  • I'm working on a new project at the moment

Examples of usage

  • I am currently busy right now.
  • We are now ready to start the meeting.
  • They have now arrived at the destination.
Context #2 | Conjunction

in the result of the fact that

Used to introduce a statement that confirms or explains something previously said or implied.

Synonyms

so, therefore, thus.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
now

In some contexts, it can be used as a directive to prompt someone to start or continue an action.

  • Now, pay attention to the instructions
  • Now, don't forget to lock the door
therefore

This word is used in formal and written contexts to indicate a logical conclusion or result based on previously stated information.

  • The project was delayed; therefore, the launch date is pushed back
  • She has an excellent resume; therefore, she is an ideal candidate for the job
so

This word is used to connect statements, to show cause and effect, or to summarize what has been previously stated. It's often informal and used in everyday conversations.

  • I was tired, so I went to bed early
  • So, what do you think about the plan?
thus

Similar to 'therefore', but often used in more formal, academic, or literary contexts to indicate a logical consequence or result.

  • He didn't study for the exam, thus he failed
  • The experiment was a success, thus proving the hypothesis

Examples of usage

  • He couldn't pay the rent, now he faces eviction.
  • I was feeling tired, now I realize I was dehydrated.

Translations

Translations of the word "now" in other languages:

🇵🇹 agora

🇮🇳 अभी

🇩🇪 jetzt

🇮🇩 sekarang

🇺🇦 зараз

🇵🇱 teraz

🇯🇵 今 (いま)

🇫🇷 maintenant

🇪🇸 ahora

🇹🇷 şimdi

🇰🇷 지금 (jigeum)

🇸🇦 الآن

🇨🇿 teď

🇸🇰 teraz

🇨🇳 现在 (xiànzài)

🇸🇮 zdaj

🇮🇸 núna

🇰🇿 қазір

🇬🇪 ახლა

🇦🇿 indi

🇲🇽 ahora

Etymology

The word 'now' originated from the Old English word 'nū', which has been used since the 12th century. It has evolved over time to represent the immediate present moment. The usage of 'now' has remained consistent throughout the centuries, serving as an adverb to indicate the current time or a conjunction to connect ideas. Its simplicity and versatility have made it a fundamental part of the English language.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #74, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.