Now

Definition

Now is an adverb, conjunction, and noun. It refers to the present moment in time or emphasizes immediacy. As a conjunction, it introduces a result or shift in topic.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb
• Conjunction
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /naʊ/
• Respelling: NOW

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /naʊ/
• Respelling: NOW

Etymology

The word "now" originates from Old English "nu," derived from Proto-Germanic "*nu" and Proto-Indo-European "*nu-" (present, immediate). It has been used in its current form to denote the present moment since Middle English.

Derivatives

• Nowadays (adverb)
• Nowhere (adverb)
• Nowhere near (phrase)
• Nowism (noun, rare)
• Nowthen (exclamation, archaic)

Synonyms

• Currently
• Presently
• Immediately

Antonyms

• Then
• Later
• Past

Usage

The word "now" is commonly used to indicate the present time or to emphasize urgency. For example: "I need to leave now," or "What are you doing now?"

Related Terms

• Present: The current time or moment.
• Immediate: Happening or done at once.
• Moment: A brief period of time.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• At the present time or moment: Indicates the time currently occurring.
  • Example: "She is working now."
• Immediately or at once: Used to express urgency or immediacy.
  • Example: "Do it now, before it’s too late."

Conjunction

• Since or because of something: Used to introduce a result or shift in discussion.
  • Example: "Now that we’ve finished, let’s celebrate."

Noun

• The present moment: Refers to the current time or the concept of the present.
  • Example: "We must focus on the now rather than worry about the future."