No time like the present: Learn what the means through example!

What does “No time like the present” mean?

"No time like the present" means that doing something now is better than waiting to do it later.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I've been meaning to clean my room, but no time like the present.

Example

I've been putting off going to the gym, but no time like the present to start getting in shape.

Example

I've been procrastinating on starting my homework, but no time like the present to get it done

Is “No time like the present” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“No time like the present” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “No time like the present” effectively in context?

You can use "No time like the present" to encourage someone to take action immediately instead of waiting. It emphasizes the importance of seizing the current moment and not procrastinating. For example, if a friend has been talking about starting a new hobby, you might say, 'Why wait? There's no time like the present to pick up that guitar and start playing.'

• 1. Personal Development

  She's been meaning to learn a new language, but no time like the present to enroll in a language course.

• 2. Health and Fitness

  He's been putting off going to the gym, but no time like the present to start getting in shape.

• 3. Productivity

  She's been procrastinating on starting her homework, but no time like the present to get it done.

Similar phrases to “No time like the present”:

Carpe diem

Seize the day; make the most of the present moment

Example

He decided to carpe diem and travel the world while he had the opportunity.

Strike while the iron is hot

Take advantage of an opportunity while it's available

Example

She knew she had to strike while the iron was hot and pitch her business idea to the investors.

Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today

Do not delay or postpone tasks that can be done immediately

Example

He reminded himself not to put off until tomorrow what he could do today and started working on his project.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “No time like the present” come from?

The origin of the phrase "No time like the present" is unknown.

Is “No time like the present” common in everyday conversation?

"No time like the present" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to motivate themselves or others to take immediate action instead of delaying tasks or goals.

What tone does “No time like the present” have?

"No time like the present" conveys a tone of urgency and motivation. It's often used to inspire and encourage people to make the most of the current moment and not postpone important actions.

Can “No time like the present” be used in informal and formal settings?

"No time like the present" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of taking action promptly. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as work meetings or professional emails.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'There's no time like the present to start working on your goals.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'No time like the present!' to imply the need for immediate action.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• take the plunge
• seize the moment
• act now
• make a move
• jump right in

Antonyms

• delay
• procrastinate
• postpone
• wait for the right time
• put off