Pas maintenant
The English phrase "not right now" can be translated into French as Pas maintenant.
Pas maintenant is an informal expression used to mean "not now".
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of pas (not) and maintenant (now).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Pas maintenant is an informal expression. The alternative Pas tout de suite is a common way to say 'not right away' or 'not immediately' in a more conversational tone.
Did you know?
- In ancient French, saying 'not' was like saying 'not a step', as if you were refusing to move forward.
- The term maintenant comes from the Old French word for 'holding' or 'keeping' something in the present moment.
- In very formal or written French, the word pas is sometimes dropped entirely in certain negative constructions without changing the meaning of the sentence.
Examples in context
- Pas maintenant, je suis occupé.Not now, I am busy.
- On peut discuter ? Pas maintenant.Can we talk? Not right now.
- Pas maintenant, je termine ce travail.Not right now, I am finishing this work.
Example conversation
Nathan asks Manon for help with a task.
- ManonManon, tu peux m'aider ?Manon, can you help me?
- NathanPas maintenant, Nathan. Je termine ça.Not right now, Nathan. I'm finishing this.
- ManonD'accord, je reviendrai plus tard.Okay, I will come back later.
- NathanMerci, à tout à l'heure !Thanks, see you soon!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries maintenant, pas, CC BY-SA 4.0.
