🇫🇷 How to say

“now” in French

maintenant
Illustration of "now" in a French cultural setting
A person glances at their watch, then looks up with a smile as a friend arrives exactly on time. The moment captures the feeling of 'now'—immediate and present.

Usage note

Use 'maintenant' to refer to the present moment, similar to 'now' in English. It's neutral and common in everyday conversation.

Examples

  • Je pars maintenant.

    I'm leaving now.

  • Maintenant, c'est à ton tour.

    Now it's your turn.

  • Il fait beau maintenant.

    The weather is nice now.

Quick check

What does "maintenant" mean?

  • A. now
  • B. where
  • C. tomorrow
  • D. why

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