# nowadays

/ˈnaʊəˌdeɪz/ (US) · /nˈaʊədˌeɪz/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nowadays
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

at the present time, especially when you are comparing it to the past. You use it to talk about how things are different now.

For teachers: at the present time or in the current era, typically used to contrast current circumstances with those of a previous period.

## Examples

- Nowadays, most people use their phones to pay for things.
- Nowadays, it is much easier to work from home than it was ten years ago.
- While traditional manufacturing once dominated the local economy, most residents nowadays find employment in the burgeoning technology and service sectors.

## Pitfalls

- Not "In nowadays, people travel more." but "Nowadays, people travel more." — Nowadays is an adverb, not a noun; it should not be preceded by a preposition like 'in'.

## Usage notes

- Typically functions as a sentence adverb, appearing at the beginning or end of a clause to provide temporal context.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.