SpeeekDownload on the App Store
Back to At The Restaurant

Spanish Phrase

Ahora mismo.

/aˈoɾa ˈmizmo/
Meaning"Right now."
💡

Meaning

This phrase literally translates to "now itself" or "at this very moment." It's used to express immediate action or a very short delay, conveying a sense of urgency or promptness. It's stronger and more precise than just "ahora" (now).

🎯

When to use

Use "Ahora mismo" when you want to emphasize that something is happening at the current instant, or that you will do something without any delay. It's perfect for responding to a request with immediate compliance, or to describe an action that is currently in progress and requires full attention.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Ahoramismo

1

Ahora (adverb of time)

'Ahora' is an adverb of time meaning 'now.' It indicates the present moment. It can be used alone, but its immediacy can be less precise than 'ahora mismo.'

2

Mismo (intensifier)

'Mismo' acts as an intensifier here, similar to 'very' or 'self' in English. When combined with 'ahora,' it emphasizes the exactness and immediacy of the 'now,' leaving no room for ambiguity.

🗨In Conversation

A

¿Puedes ayudarme con esto?

Can you help me with this?

Sí, ahora mismo.

Yes, right now.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Lo hago ahora.

    While 'ahora' means 'now,' it can sometimes imply 'soon' or 'later today' in some Spanish-speaking contexts. Using 'ahora mismo' removes this ambiguity and clearly states 'right this second.'

  • Voy a hacerlo en este momento.

    While grammatically correct, 'en este momento' is more formal and less common for expressing immediate action in casual conversation than 'ahora mismo.'

↔Alternatives

  • Ahora.

    Now.

  • En este momento.

    At this moment.

  • Inmediatamente.

    Immediately.

  • Ya.

    Already / Now (can also mean 'right now' depending on context).

es

Cultural Tip

In many Spanish-speaking cultures, the word 'ahora' can be quite flexible in its meaning of 'now.' It might mean 'in a few minutes,' 'later today,' or even 'sometime soon.' To truly convey 'right this second' or 'immediately,' adding 'mismo' is crucial. This distinction is important to avoid misunderstandings, especially in professional or time-sensitive situations.