German word

jetzt

Pronunciation

IPA/jɛtst/

Meaning

  • adverbnow

Example

Kannst du jetzt kommen?

Can you come now?

Illustration for jetzt (now)

More examples

Mach es jetzt.

Do it now.

Core concept

A marker placed at the present moment, with attention extending to an action beginning immediately.

Common phrases

  • jetzt oder nie

    now or never

  • ab jetzt

    starting now

Similar words

gerade: At the moment, during an ongoing event.
sofort: As soon as possible, with no delay.
gleich: Very soon, after a short interval.
nun: At the present time, especially in formal writing.

Definition in German

jetzt bedeutet im Moment, also etwas, das in diesem Augenblick stattfindet oder unmittelbar beginnt

Word origin

Jetzt continues Middle High German ietze or iez and Old High German iezu, inherited forms meaning 'at this time'.

Usage tips

  • Unlike English 'now', jetzt can also mean 'right away'; gerade highlights what is currently happening, while sofort stresses no delay.

Other meanings

  • right awayadverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word