how about now

USAGE SUMMARY

"how about now" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to ask someone if something is true or acceptable at the present moment, or if a new suggestion or proposal is better than a previous one. For example, "I'd like to go to the movies tonight, how about now?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

How about now?

The New Yorker

Don't kill us yet!" How about now, Javier?

The Guardian - Sport

How about "Now is not the time to start another argument with your wife"?

The New York Times

A sophisticated graphical reporting interface helps keep a project on time and within budget.Special report How about now?

The Economist

This is one of the most important causes of inefficiency in a supply chain.Special report How about now?

The Economist

How about now... Do you hope you'll still be with your partner when you're in your eighties?

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

That is the question. Technic Ally, Toronto How about not right now Tebow?

The New York Times

December 1 ,2013 Nick Smith (@NickJISmith) @HunterFelt or how about right now.

The Guardian - Sport

How about Mick McManus, now 83? "No, I don't think so.

Independent

Oh, well then how about right now.

TechCrunch

How about right now?

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "how about now" to propose immediate action or re-evaluate a situation in the present moment. It is versatile and appropriate in both informal conversations and professional settings to prompt a decision or change of plan.

Common error

Avoid using "how about now" in highly formal or critical situations where a more nuanced or polite inquiry is required. Overusing it can sound impatient or dismissive. Consider the tone and adjust your language accordingly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "how about now" primarily functions as an interrogative phrase, prompting a reconsideration or immediate action. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and usable for suggesting or inquiring about the suitability of the present moment. For example, "How about now? Do you hope you'll still be with your partner when you're in your eighties?"

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "how about now" is a versatile and grammatically correct phrase used to suggest immediate action or reassess a current situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a practical option for initiating a decision or proposing something in the present moment. Predominantly found in News & Media, this phrase maintains a neutral register, fitting seamlessly into various communication styles. Whether you are prompting action or seeking immediate confirmation, "how about now" offers a concise and effective means of engaging in the moment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what about right now

Changes "how" to "what", offering a slightly more direct inquiry about the present moment.

what do you say to now

Rephrases the question as an invitation or suggestion, seeking agreement or approval.

how does right now sound

Presents the present moment as a proposal and asks for an evaluation.

is now a good time

Asks directly whether the present moment is suitable for a specific action or discussion.

would now work for you

Inquires about the other person's availability or convenience at the present time.

shall we do it now

Poses a question about whether it's the right time to act

what if we did it now

Proposes doing something immediately, emphasizing the possibility of acting right away.

why not do it now

Suggests doing something immediately, often implying that there's no reason to delay.

is there a better time than now

Suggests that the present moment might be the best opportunity to act.

could we proceed now

Asks if it's acceptable to start doing something now.

FAQs

How can I use "how about now" in a sentence?

You can use "how about now" to suggest immediate action or to check if the current time is suitable for something. For example, "We were planning to start later, but "how about now"?" or "I wasn't ready before, but "how about now"?"

What's the difference between "how about now" and "how about then"?

"How about now" refers to the present moment, suggesting immediate action or a current evaluation. "How about then" refers to a point in the future or a past moment under discussion, suggesting a plan or consideration for that specific time.

Are there more formal alternatives to "how about now"?

Yes, in more formal settings, you might use phrases like "would this be a suitable time?", "is now a good time?", or "could we proceed now?" These options convey a similar meaning with increased politeness and formality.

Is it appropriate to use "how about now" in professional emails?

It can be appropriate in certain contexts, especially when responding to a request or suggesting a quick decision. However, consider your relationship with the recipient and the overall tone of the email. In some cases, a slightly more formal option like "would now work for you?" might be better.