Looking up...
right now
/raɪt naʊ/
at this very moment
I need to finish this report right now.
The speaker emphasizes urgency, meaning the task must be completed immediately.
informal
at the present moment; immediately
The baby is crying right now, so I can't talk long.
The speaker indicates the crying is happening at the exact time of speaking.
Right now, I'm focusing on my studies.
The phrase emphasizes the current priority or activity.
Often used to express urgency, immediacy, or to emphasize the present moment in conversation.
Collocations
right nowat this very momentright now or neverthe current moment is the only opportunity
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Emphasizing urgency
Use 'right now' to stress that something must happen immediately or is happening at the exact moment of speaking.
Gold Rule
Formal vs. informal
While 'right now' is common in casual speech, in formal writing or professional settings, alternatives like 'at this moment' or 'currently' may be more appropriate.
Word Origin
Combination of 'right' (meaning 'exactly' or 'immediately') and 'now' (meaning the present time). The phrase has been used in English since at least the 19th century.
Usage Notes
Common in spoken English to emphasize immediacy or to clarify the current situation. Can sound abrupt or impatient if overused.
Word Breakdown
right
exactly, precisely
adverbnow
the present time
adverbEnglish Dictionary