now

UK: naʊ | US: naʊ

Definition

  1. adv. at the present time or moment

  2. adv. in the immediate past; very recently

  3. conj. since or because (introducing a statement or question)

Structure
now <current time>
Etymology

The word "now" traces back to Old English nū, meaning "at the present time." It shares roots with German nun and Dutch nu, all stemming from Proto-Germanic nu. This simple yet essential adverb has remained structurally unchanged for over a millennium, reflecting its core function in marking immediacy or the present moment.

Examples

  1. I need an answer now, not tomorrow.

  2. She was here just now but left abruptly.

  3. Now, let’s move on to the next topic.

  4. Now that you mention it, I remember the incident.

  5. The train should be arriving now.