Definition of now

Short definition: The word now means at this moment or at the present time. People use it all the time to talk about what is happening, what should happen next, or when something finally changes.

Looking for a clear and real-life explanation of the word now? The word now might look simple, but it plays a huge role in how we talk about time, urgency, change, and focus. We use it to describe what is happening at this exact moment, to compare the present with the past, to shift attention, and even to express emotions like impatience or excitement. Below, each meaning is explained in a relaxed and natural way with long examples that reflect how people truly use this word.

Related: nowadays adv., nowaday adj. (rare)
Syllable: now

1. (Adverb) At the present moment; at this exact time.
   I can’t talk much right now, because I’m in the middle of an important meeting.
   She feels much calmer now than she did a few months ago.
   We are living in a very different world now, compared to how things were just ten years ago.

   Synonyms: at present, currently, right now, at the moment, today, presently, this minute, these days, nowadays, for now, in the present time, at this time
   Antonyms: then, later, earlier, before, afterward, in the past, someday, eventually, formerly, previously, long ago, at another time

2. (Adverb) Used to show a change from the past to the present.
   He used to be very shy, but he’s much more confident now after years of personal growth.
   We didn’t understand the importance of saving money back then, but we do now.
   Life feels different now that she has moved to a new city.

   Synonyms: these days, at this stage, currently, nowadays, at present, at this point, at this time, today, in this moment, presently, in recent times, in the present
   Antonyms: before, back then, formerly, previously, once, in the past, earlier, long ago, in former times, yesterday, in old days, at that time

3. (Adverb) Used to show urgency or that something should happen immediately.
   We need to leave now if we want to catch the last train tonight.
   Please stop arguing and listen to me now, because this is really important.
   He realized that if he didn’t act now, he might lose the opportunity forever.

   Synonyms: immediately, right away, at once, straight away, instantly, without delay, this minute, promptly, quickly, urgently, without waiting, in no time
   Antonyms: later, eventually, someday, after a while, in time, at leisure, slowly, gradually, when ready, at a later date, in the future, eventually later

4. (Conjunction) Used to introduce a new situation or condition, often meaning “since” or “because.”
   Now that you understand the rules, the game should feel much easier.
   Now that he has finished his exams, he finally has time to relax.
   Now that we have all the information, we can make a better decision.

   Synonyms: since, because, as long as, given that, seeing that, inasmuch as, due to the fact that, considering that, when, after, once, provided that
   Antonyms: before, until, unless, even if not, without condition, regardless of, despite the fact that, although, while, though, in spite of, whereas

5. (Noun) The present time, especially as a contrast to the past or future.
   We can’t change what happened before, but we can focus on the now and shape what comes next.
   Living in the now helps her enjoy small moments she used to overlook.
   Sometimes the best gift you can give yourself is simply being fully present in the now.

   Synonyms: present, current moment, today, present time, this moment, the present, today’s time, here and now, immediate present, living moment, present day, present reality
   Antonyms: past, future, yesterday, tomorrow, bygone days, what’s ahead, what’s behind, former times, days to come, earlier era, later time, another age

6. (Figurative) Used to shift attention in conversation, often to introduce a new topic or highlight an important point.
   Now, let’s talk about what really matters, instead of arguing over small details.
   Now, this is where things start to get interesting, so pay close attention.
   Now, I understand why you were worried earlier.

   Synonyms: well then, at this point, so, okay then, right, listen up, here’s the thing, let’s see, in that case, moving on, at this moment, pay attention
   Antonyms: ignore this, change subject abruptly, avoid topic, stay silent, skip discussion, move away from, drop the point, overlook, dismiss, brush aside, shift away, disregard