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Nowadays Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nowadays

[ˈnaʊəˌdeɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in modern times

At the present period of time; in the current era.

Synonyms

at present, currently, these days.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nowadays

Repeated to show a sense of focus on comparison with previous times.

  • Nowadays, mobile phones have become an essential part of our daily lives.
  • Travel has become much easier nowadays with the advent of digital platforms.
currently

Used to describe something that is happening right now, usually in a business or technical context.

  • The software is currently undergoing an update.
  • She is currently studying for her final exams.
at present

Used to talk about something happening right now with a formal tone.

  • At present, the company is working on launching a new product.
  • There are no vacancies at present, but we will keep your application on file.
these days

Used informally to refer to the present time in a general, day-to-day sense.

  • It's hard to find good customer service these days.
  • People are more health-conscious these days than they used to be.

Examples of usage

  • Nowadays, technology plays a major role in our daily lives.
  • Homes are much smarter nowadays due to advancements in technology.
  • People nowadays are more health-conscious than in the past.
Context #2 | Noun

modern times

The current period of time, characterized by contemporary customs, trends, etc.

Synonyms

contemporary era, current times, present day.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nowadays

This word is often used in casual conversation when comparing past and present. It's a popular choice for expressing changes over time, usually with a nostalgic or somewhat critical tone.

  • Nowadays, kids spend a lot of time on their phones.
  • It's hard to find good quality products nowadays.
present day

This phrase is generally used in a formal context or in written English, often to mark a clear distinction between different time periods.

  • The present day society is vastly different from that of the early 20th century.
  • Many ancient practices have evolved to fit the present day needs.
contemporary era

Use this term in academic or formal contexts when discussing the current period in comparison to historical periods. It often appears in discussions related to history, sociology, or art.

  • The contemporary era has seen rapid advancements in technology.
  • In the contemporary era, the global economy is more interconnected than ever.
current times

This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal settings. It emphasizes the immediate present and is often used in conversations about social, political, or economic conditions.

  • The challenges we face in current times are unprecedented.
  • In current times, it's essential to stay updated with the latest news.

Examples of usage

  • In nowadays, social media has a significant impact on society.
  • Business strategies have evolved to adapt to the demands of nowadays.
  • The fashion industry is constantly changing to keep up with the trends of nowadays.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Relevance

  • 'Nowadays' is often used in discussions about differences between past and present lifestyles, especially in media and literature.
  • In modern slang, the term is sometimes replaced with terms like 'these days' or 'today' for informal conversations.
  • The word appears frequently in songs and poetry to capture the essence of contemporary life and feelings.

Psychology

  • Psychologists often explore how the perceptions of 'nowadays' affect mental well-being, especially regarding technology and social relationships.
  • People tend to express nostalgia for the past when comparing it to how they perceive life 'nowadays'.
  • Discussions on modern happiness often involve distinguishing past joys from those found in the current era.

Technology

  • With the rapid evolution of technology, 'nowadays' highlights the impact of digital advancements on daily life.
  • The term is often used in tech discussions to differentiate traditional practices from contemporary innovations.
  • Aspects like online education and remote work have transformed how people describe 'nowadays' compared to previous generations.

Literature

  • The word appears frequently in contemporary literature, often to reflect the changes in society and human experience.
  • Authors use 'nowadays' to create a relatable context for readers, grounding their stories in modern settings.
  • Classic works are often revisited with the understanding of 'nowadays', prompting discussions on their relevance in today's world.

Origin of 'nowadays'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'nowadays' comes from a combination of 'now' and 'days' and was first used in writing around the 14th century.
  • It originated as a way to emphasize the current state of things in contrast to the past.
  • The use of 'nowadays' indicates a shift in circumstances, reflecting social and cultural changes over time.

The word 'nowadays' originated in Middle English as 'now a dayes' meaning 'in these days'. Over time, it evolved into the single word 'nowadays' with the same meaning of referring to the present time. The usage of this word has become more common in modern English to describe the current era or period of time.

See also: daily, day, daybed, daybreak, daylight, daypack, daystar, daytime, today, yesterday.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,670 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.