When using the word “now” to refer to a moment in the past, there are several ways to convey the intended meaning. Whether you want to express yourself formally or informally, this guide will provide you with various tips, examples, and regional variations (if necessary) to help you master the art of saying “now” in the past tense.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Now” in Past Tense
1. At that time
Example: The project was completed on time, and at that time, we were all satisfied with the results.
2. Back then
Example: Back then, technology was not as advanced as it is today, and we had to rely on traditional methods.
3. In those days
Example: In those days, people used to gather around the radio to listen to their favorite shows.
Informal Ways to Say “Now” in Past Tense
1. Nowadays
Example: People would chat face-to-face more often, unlike nowadays where most communication happens online.
2. Back in the day
Example: Back in the day, we didn’t have smartphones, and we had to rely on payphones to make calls.
3. In the olden days
Example: In the olden days, children played outside, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.
Regional Variations
1. British English
In British English, an additional phrase often used to express the past tense of “now” is “in those times.”
Example: In those times, families would gather around the television to watch their favorite programs.
2. American English
In American English, you may come across the phrase “back in the time.”
Example: Back in the time, people relied on typewriters to produce written documents.
Tips for Using “Now” in Past Tense
1. Context is Key: When using any of these phrases, make sure the context clearly indicates you are referring to a past moment and not the present.
2. Consider Your Audience: Choose the appropriate level of formality based on the audience you are addressing. Formal settings such as academic papers or business reports warrant more formal phrasing.
3. Practice Variation: Experiment with different phrases and see which ones feel most natural to you. Language is constantly evolving, so it’s essential to adapt and explore various expressions.
Examples in Context
Here are a few examples that demonstrate the usage of these phrases in different contexts:
Formal:
At that time, we did not have access to the technology required to complete the project.
In those days, education was considered a privilege accessible only to the elite.
Informal:
Nowadays, people rely heavily on social media to stay connected.
Back in the day, friendships were built through face-to-face interactions, not online platforms.
Regional Variations (British):
In those times, families used to gather around the hearth and share stories.
Regional Variations (American):
Back in the time, drive-in theaters were the go-to spot for a fun night out.
Now that you have learned various ways to say “now” in the past tense, feel free to experiment and choose the phrases that resonate with your speaking or writing style. Remember, language should be employed to effectively convey your thoughts and emotions, so embrace this newfound linguistic flexibility to add depth and richness to your expressions.
