The correct spelling of the phrase "til now" is a subject of confusion for many. "Til" is actually a shortened form of the word "until," often used informally in writing. The word "until" is pronounced [ʌnˈtɪl] in IPA phonetics, which helps explain the spelling of "til" with just one "l." "Now," meanwhile, is pronounced [naʊ] and contributes to the overall pronunciation of the phrase: [tɪl naʊ]. So next time you're writing "til now," make sure to remember it's just one "l"!
Til now is a phrase that is commonly used in English language, particularly in informal or spoken contexts. It is a contraction of the words "until" and "now", combining them to create a concise expression to indicate the present moment with reference to the past.
The phrase "til now" refers to an action, event, or situation that has continued up until the present time. It implies that something has been true or valid in the period leading up to this moment. It suggests that a change or new development may occur from this point onwards, highlighting a shift in circumstances.
The phrase can be used in various contexts, such as discussing ongoing activities, the culmination of a process, or the present state after a series of past events. For example, one could say, "I have been studying all night til now," indicating that the studying has been ongoing but may come to an end or change soon. Another example could be, "He had been the team captain til now," suggesting that his role as captain has recently changed or been transferred.
In summary, "til now" is a concise way to refer to the present moment, highlighting the continuation of an action, event, or state from the past up until this point. It indicates a potential shift or change in circumstances moving forward from the present time.
The phrase til now is a shortened form of the longer expression until now. The word until originated from the Old English word un- meaning up to or as far as, and the word til derives from the Old Norse word til which served the same purpose. Both til and un- ultimately trace back to the Proto-Indo-European root *ant- meaning front or end. Over time, languages and dialects evolve and words are shortened or modified, leading to the development of til as a contraction of until. Hence, the etymology of til now can be understood by tracing back the history of the words until and til.