Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to express the concept of “until now” in English. Whether you’re looking to learn the formal or informal ways of conveying this idea, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we’ll explore various expressions, provide insightful tips, and offer numerous examples to help you master the usage of “until now” in different contexts. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Until Now” in English
When it comes to formal communication, such as business meetings, academic writing, or professional discussions, using appropriate expressions to indicate “until now” is crucial. Here are a few formal ways to do so:
1. Up to this point
The phrase “up to this point” is widely used to indicate the time before the present moment. It is a formal and straightforward expression suitable for various situations. For instance:
Up to this point, we have successfully completed all the required milestones of the project.
His dedication and hard work have brought him up to this point in his career.
2. Prior to the present
Another formal way of expressing “until now” is by using the phrase “prior to the present.” This expression emphasizes the time leading up to the current moment. Consider the following examples:
- Example 1: Prior to the present, we haven’t encountered any major issues with the software.
- Example 2: The company’s profits had been steadily increasing prior to the present financial downturn.
3. Hitherto
The term “hitherto” is a slightly more formal and literary expression used to convey the meaning “until now.” It is often found in written texts or formal speeches. Let’s take a look at a couple of examples:
- Example 1: Hitherto, we have focused primarily on improving customer satisfaction.
- Example 2: The company’s policy has been hitherto effective in reducing waste.
Informal Ways to Say “Until Now” in English
In less formal settings, such as everyday conversations with friends, colleagues, or family, you may opt for more casual expressions to convey the idea of “until now.” Here are some informal ways to do so:
1. So far
The expression “so far” is widely used in informal conversations to indicate the duration leading up to the present moment. It is versatile and applicable in various contexts:
- Example 1: So far, I’ve enjoyed my vacation in Hawaii.
- Example 2: The movie has been entertaining so far, but it’s not over yet.
2. Up until now
When you want to emphasize the continuity of a situation or experience until the present moment in a more casual manner, the phrase “up until now” works perfectly:
- Example 1: Up until now, he hadn’t realized how much he missed his hometown.
- Example 2: We’ve had a great time on this trip up until now.
3. Till now
If you’re looking for an even more informal way to express “until now,” consider using the abbreviated form “till now.” It is commonly used in spoken English:
- Example 1: Till now, we haven’t had any issues with the new software.
- Example 2: I’ve been working here for two years, and till now, I’ve enjoyed every moment.
Common Usage Tips for “Until Now”
To ensure smooth and natural usage of expressions related to “until now,” keep these helpful tips in mind:
- 1. Context matters: Always consider the context in which you’re using the expression. Formal situations call for more professional language, whereas informal settings allow for more relaxed expressions.
- 2. Consider your audience: Adapt your choice of words based on your audience. Use formal expressions when addressing superiors, professors, or individuals you’re not familiar with, while opting for informal expressions with friends, peers, or family members.
- 3. Practice pronunciation: Pay attention to the correct pronunciation of these phrases to enhance your overall English fluency. Practice their intonation and stress patterns by listening to native speakers or using pronunciation resources.
- 4. Variety is key: To expand your language skills, aim to incorporate a variety of expressions instead of relying solely on one phrase. This diversity will make your speech and writing more engaging and rich.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now reached the end of our comprehensive guide on how to say “until now” in English. Remember, the formal expressions like “up to this point,” “prior to the present,” and “hitherto” are ideal for professional or academic situations, while the more casual options like “so far,” “up until now,” and “till now” are suitable for informal conversations. Be sure to consider the context, audience, and practice your pronunciation to achieve the best results. By mastering these expressions, you’ll enhance your language skills and communicate effectively in various situations. Happy learning!
