NOW Meaning and
Definition
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Now is an adverb that refers to the current moment or point in time. It signifies the period of time that is immediately present or the immediate situation. It denotes the present state or time frame and is often used to emphasize immediacy, signaling that an action or event is happening or expected to happen immediately or without delay.
In its temporal sense, "now" typically indicates the precise time of speaking or writing, capturing a specific moment in a continuous sequence of time. It implies a particular current state or situation, highlighting its relevance to the context being discussed. Moreover, "now" can also be used to express a change from a previous state or to introduce a new course of action or development.
In addition to conveying time, "now" can also carry the meaning of "at the moment" or "at this point in time," suggesting that something is happening or is true in the present. Its usage can convey a sense of urgency, prompting immediate attention or action. Furthermore, "now" can function as a transitional adverb, connecting ideas or events and signaling a shift from one topic or activity to another.
Overall, "now" serves as a powerful linguistic tool to pinpoint the current moment, emphasize immediacy, introduce new information or actions, and facilitate coherent transitions in speech or writing.
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• The present time or moment.
• At the present time; very lately.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for NOW *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for NOW
Etymology of NOW
The word now comes from the Old English word nu, which has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word nu and the Proto-Indo-European root nu. It is considered an ancient and anciently attested word. The same root can be found in other Germanic languages such as German nun and Dutch nu.
Idioms with the word NOW
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now, now
The idiom "now, now" is used to try and calm someone down who is agitated or upset. It is typically said in a soft and soothing tone to gently encourage the person to relax or reconsider their emotions. It can also be used to promote patience or to discourage impulsive reactions.
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Now what?
The idiom "Now what?" is a rhetorical question or exclamation expressing confusion, uncertainty, or a lack of direction in a given situation. It is often used when facing a problem, reaching a point of uncertainty, or encountering an unexpected turn of events.
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right now
The idiom "right now" refers to the present moment, indicating that something is happening or needs to happen immediately, without any delay or hesitation.
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Now you're cooking!
The idiom "Now you're cooking!" is an expression used to convey excitement or approval when someone is doing something skillfully or successfully. It often implies that the person is performing exceptionally well or making progress in a certain activity.
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you've made your bed and now you must lie in it
The idiom "you've made your bed, and now you must lie in it" is a metaphorical expression. It means that when someone has made a decision or taken a certain course of action, they must accept the consequences or outcomes, even if they are negative or undesirable. Essentially, it suggests that individuals are responsible for their own choices and must face the results, whether they are good or bad.
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now (someone) has gone and done it
The idiom "now (someone) has gone and done it" is typically used to express frustration or disappointment when someone has done something that is considered unwise, foolish, or has created a difficult or challenging situation. It implies that the person's action has caused an undesirable outcome or has made a problem worse.
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any minute, day, time, etc. now
The idiom "any minute, day, time, etc. now" is used to express that something is expected or anticipated to happen very soon or in the immediate future. It implies that the event, action, or occurrence is imminent and could take place at any moment.
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Ciao, for now
The idiom "Ciao, for now" is a casual way of saying goodbye or farewell, implying that the speaker will see the person again in the near future. The word "ciao" is an Italian greeting commonly used as a casual and friendly way of saying hello or goodbye.
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it's now or never
The idiom "it's now or never" means that there is a limited opportunity to take action or make a decision, emphasizing that if one fails to seize the current moment, it may never come again in the future.
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Good-bye for now
The idiom "Good-bye for now" typically means a temporary farewell or parting, suggesting the intention to see or interact with the person again in the future. It implies a temporary break or separation, with the understanding that a reunion or further interaction will occur at a later time.
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(right) here and now
The idiom "(right) here and now" means immediately, without delay, in the present moment or at this very moment. It emphasizes the sense of urgency or immediacy in taking action or making decisions without hesitation.
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now generation
The idiom "now generation" refers to the current or present generation of people, often characterized by their desire for immediate gratification, impatience, and reliance on new technologies and trends.
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Now hear this!
The idiom "Now hear this!" is a phrase used to capture someone's attention, often when delivering important or urgent information. It is typically used in a military or authoritative context to alert individuals to listen carefully and acknowledge imminent instructions or announcements.
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(every) now and then/again
The idiom "(every) now and then/again" means occasionally or from time to time. It refers to events or occurrences that happen infrequently or irregularly, with no fixed pattern or schedule.
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now then
The idiom "now then" is typically used as an interjection or phrase to grab someone's attention or to signal a transition or change in the current situation. It can also be used as a friendly greeting or way to start a conversation.
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there now, at there, there
The idiom "there now, there, there" is a phrase used to express comfort, consolation, or reassurance to someone who is upset, distressed, or crying. It is often accompanied by gentle physical gestures such as patting or rubbing on the back. The phrase is meant to offer comfort and emotional support to help the person calm down or feel better.
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you've made your bed, now lie in it
The idiom "you've made your bed, now lie in it" means that you must accept the negative consequences or circumstances resulting from your own actions or decisions. It signifies that once you have made a choice or done something, you have to live with the outcomes and not complain or expect others to fix the situation for you.
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in the here and now
The idiom "in the here and now" refers to being focused and fully present in the current moment or situation, without being distracted by the past or future. It emphasizes mindfulness and paying attention to what is happening at the present time.
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(I) have to go now.
The idiom "(I) have to go now" means that someone needs to leave or end a conversation or situation promptly, often due to a specific reason or obligation. It implies a sense of urgency or necessity to depart at that moment.
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That's enough for now
The idiom "That's enough for now" means that there has been a sufficient amount of something at present and it is time to stop or take a break. It indicates that the current quantity or amount is satisfactory for the time being, and there is no need for further continuation or addition.
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now you're talking
The idiom "now you're talking" is often used to express enthusiasm or approval when someone finally starts saying or doing something that is desired or appropriate. It indicates that the person is on the right track or has finally understood what needs to be done.
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now and again
The idiom "now and again" means occasionally or sometimes. It refers to something that happens or occurs intermittently or infrequently, rather than regularly.
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(every) now and then
The idiom "(every) now and then" means occasionally or from time to time. It refers to situations or events that occur intermittently or with irregular frequency.
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every now and
The idiom "every now and then" is used to describe something that happens occasionally or sporadically, that is, it occurs or takes place periodically but not frequently or regularly.
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not right now, thanks
The idiom "not right now, thanks" is a polite way of declining an offer or suggestion, indicating that one is not interested or available at the present moment.
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now and again/then
The idiom "now and again/then" means occasionally or every now and then. It implies something happening or occurring on an irregular or infrequent basis.
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the here and now
The idiom "the here and now" refers to the present moment or current situation, emphasizing the importance of focusing on what is happening at that particular time rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. It encourages being fully aware and engaged in the present instant.
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you've made your bed, now lie on it
The idiom "you've made your bed, now lie on it" means that you must face the consequences of your actions or decisions. It implies that once you have made a choice or done something, you are responsible for dealing with the outcome, whether it is favorable or unfavorable. It emphasizes personal accountability and the idea that you should accept the results of your own actions without complaint or avoidance.
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Now you're cooking (with gas)!
The definition of the idiom "Now you're cooking (with gas)!" means that someone is doing an excellent job or making great progress in a given task or activity. It originated from the phrase used to promote the benefits and efficiency of cooking with gas stoves compared to other methods, implying that things are now going well and efficiently.
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here and now
The idiom "here and now" refers to the present moment or the current situation. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on what is happening in the immediate present rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. It implies a sense of seizing the moment and making the most of the present circumstances.
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now and then
The idiom "now and then" refers to something that happens occasionally or intermittently, with no set pattern. It means that something occurs from time to time, but not regularly or constantly.
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every now and again/then
The idiom "every now and again/then" means occasionally or from time to time. It refers to something that happens infrequently or at irregular intervals.
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just now
The idiom "just now" is typically used to refer to a recent past or very recent action or occurrence. It implies that the mentioned event happened only a short time ago.
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now or never
"Now or never" is an idiom that implies that if one doesn't act or seize an opportunity immediately, it may not be possible to do so in the future. It signifies that this is the only chance, and if it is not taken advantage of at this moment, it may be lost forever.
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Bye-bye, for now
The idiom "Bye-bye, for now" is an informal way of bidding farewell to someone, indicating that the speaker is parting temporarily and will see the person again in the future. It conveys a sense of temporary separation, suggesting that the speaker expects to reunite with the individual at a later time.
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now, where was I
The idiom "now, where was I?" is a rhetorical question used to express uncertainty or forgetfulness about the speaker's previous train of thought or what they were doing. It is commonly used when someone is interrupted or distracted and wants to resume their previous line of thinking or conversation.
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any second now
The idiom "any second now" refers to an imminent or imminent event or situation that is expected to happen very soon, often emphasizing the anticipation or immediacy of an impending action.
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as of now
The idiom "as of now" means at the current point in time or starting from this moment. It is used to indicate that something is true or applicable from the present moment onwards.
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any minute now
The idiom "any minute now" means that something is expected to happen very soon, possibly at any moment. It implies that there is a high degree of anticipation or expectancy for the event or action to occur.
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every now and again
The idiom "every now and again" means occasionally or at irregular intervals; not frequently but once in a while.
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any moment now
The idiom "any moment now" means that something is expected to happen very soon, with the implication that it could occur at any given moment. It is often used to express anticipation or the anticipation of a forthcoming event, typically highlighting the immediacy or unpredictability of the situation.
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Now I've seen everything!
The idiom "Now I've seen everything!" is used to express complete surprise or astonishment, indicating that the speaker has encountered something so unexpected or peculiar that they believe they have experienced the most extraordinary or bizarre event possible. It reflects a sense of disbelief and the notion that no future event or occurrence could ever surpass what has just been witnessed.
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from now on
The idiom "from now on" means starting from this moment and continuing into the future. It implies a change or decision to do something differently or adopt a new behavior, attitude, or approach.
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Goodbye for now
The idiom "Goodbye for now" is an expression used to bid farewell to someone temporarily, implying that you will not be seeing or speaking to them for a period of time, but there is the expectation or hope of reconnecting in the future.
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now (one's) cooking (with gas)
The idiom "now (one's) cooking (with gas)" means that someone is performing exceptionally well or making significant progress in a task or endeavor. It implies that they have achieved a state of optimal performance similar to how cooking with a gas stove is considered more efficient and effective than using other methods.
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How now, brown cow?
This is a nonsensical phrase that is often used as a playful or humorous way to greet someone or get their attention.
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even now/then
The phrase "even now/then" is used to refer to a specific point in time or situation, emphasizing that something remains unchanged or relevant despite the passage of time. It is often used to highlight a particular fact or feeling that persists.
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You're in the army now!
This idiom means that someone is now committed to a difficult or challenging situation and must face the consequences of their actions. It implies that the person is now involved in a situation that requires discipline, hard work, and dedication.
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how now?
The phrase "how now?" is an archaic interjection used to express surprise, disagreement, or questioning. It can be interpreted as a way of asking "what is the matter?" or "what is going on?" in a somewhat confrontational or challenging manner.
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all better (now)
The idiom "all better (now)" refers to a situation where a problem or issue has been resolved or improved, leading to a sense of relief or satisfaction.
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any day (now)
The idiom "any day (now)" means in the near future, likely to happen soon.
Similar spelling words for NOW
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