The phrase "now that" is a common expression used to indicate a change in circumstances or a condition that has been met. It is typically spelled with the letters "n", "o", "w", "t", "h", "a", and "t". The pronunciation of this phrase can be transcribed as /naʊ ðæt/, with the "ow" sound pronounced like the vowel in "now" and the "th" sound pronounced as in "that". The correct spelling of this phrase is important to ensure clear communication.
"Now that" is a conjunction used to express a causal relationship or a result between two events or situations, typically indicating that the second event or situation is a consequence or an opportunity arising from the first event or situation. It implies a cause-and-effect relationship and highlights a change in circumstances.
This phrase is often used to introduce an explanation or a logical consequence by delineating a sequence of events or conditions. It signifies the recognition of a particular situation or condition that prompts a subsequent action or decision. "Now that" indicates that the preceding situation has led to a new set of circumstances or considerations.
It can also be employed to emphasize a change in perspective, indicating that the speaker's viewpoint has evolved or that their attention is being directed to a different aspect. This phrase is typically followed by a clause or a sentence that reflects the implications of the introduced condition.
For example, "Now that I have finished my studies, I can focus on finding a job" implies that the completion of studies has enabled the person to shift their attention towards their career search. The "now that" construction highlights the connection between the completion of studies and the subsequent pursuit of a job.
The word "now that" is not a standalone word with a distinct etymology. It is a conjunction formed by the combination of the adverb "now" and the subordinating conjunction "that".
The adverb "now" can be traced back to Old English, where it was spelled "nū", and it was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*nu". This word has cognates in various Germanic languages, such as Old Norse "nū" and Old High German "nuo". The Proto-Germanic word ultimately goes back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*ne" which means "and, so, now".
The subordinating conjunction "that" has a different etymology. It comes from the Old English word "ðæt", which was used as a relative pronoun or demonstrative pronoun.