now
/naʊ/ adverb A1- At the present time. · Now I am six.· Stop that now, Jimmy!
- Used to introduce a point, a qualification of what has previously been said, a remonstration or a rebuke. · Now, we all want what is best for our children.· Now, Jimmy, stop that.
- Differently from the immediate past; differently from a more remote past or a possible future; differently from all other times. · Now I am ready.· We all now want the latest toys for our children.
- At the time reached within a narration. · Now he remembered why he had come.· He now asked her whether she had made pudding.
- Used to indicate a context of urgency. · Now listen, we must do something about this.
- At the present point of a recurring cycle or event. · I always used to do my shopping now, to avoid the rush.
- Used to address a switching side, or sharp change in attitude from before. · Now, you want to protect me. An hour ago, you were mercilessly bullying me!
- Sometimes; occasionally; used to list a series of often assumed states. · His face fit his roles: now smiling, now earnest, now glowering, now raging.
From the library
Her aunt now called her to look at a picture.
“He is now gone into the army,” she added; “but I am afraid he has turned out very wild.”
“‘I thought you were at Smyrna.’—‘I was; but am now back again.’
“I want nothing now that I have you,” said the old man.
Other matches
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