How to Say Now in Spanish | MostUsedWords.com
Updated for 2026, if you are learning Spanish, one of your first questions might be "how to say now in Spanish." The answer is simple: "ahora" (IPA: /a'ora/).
2,500 most common Spanish words with IPA pronunciation & bilingual example sentences
What Does 'Ahora' Mean?
Ahora, the direct translation for "now," is a versatile word used in various contexts. It can indicate urgency, express immediacy, or simply denote the present moment.
- At this moment: Estoy ocupado ahora. (I'm busy now.)
- Urgency: Ven aquí ahora mismo. (Come here right now.)
- Contrast with the past or future: Ahora entiendo. (Now I understand.)
- Time: Son las dos y media ahora. (It's two thirty now.)
Regional Differences in Spanish Usage of 'Ahora'
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The Spanish Frequency Dictionary series covers the 10,000 most common Spanish words — ranked by how often native speakers actually use them, with IPA pronunciation, English translations, and bilingual example sentences at every level.
Browse all 4 volumes →The word "ahora" is widely used across the Spanish-speaking world, but there are regional variations:
- In Spain: Ahorita (IPA: /a.o.ˈɾi.ta/) or Aquí mismo (IPA: /a.'ki.ˈmi.smo/).
- In Latin America: Ya (IPA: /ja/).
- Mexico vs Argentina: In Mexico, "ahorita" means immediacy; in Argentina, it can imply delay.
Pronunciation and Usage of 'Ahora' in Formal Settings
The pronunciation guide for Ahora is /a'ora/. It's important to note that while "ahora" is commonly used in everyday conversation, it can also be employed in formal settings. For instance:
- In a business context: Necesitamos una respuesta ahora. (We need an answer now.)
How to Say 'Now' in Spanish: Sample Sentences and Contexts
To help you master the use of "ahora," here are some sample sentences:
- ¿Qué hora es ahora?
- (What time is it now?)
- Ahora no puedo, lo siento.
- (I can't now, I'm sorry.)
- Ahora mismo estoy en casa.
- (I'm at home right now).
- Necesito una respuesta ahora.
- (I need an answer now.)
- ¿Puedes hablar ahora o más tarde?
- (Can you talk now, or later?)
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