how to pronounce right now

2 min read 06-02-2025

The phrase "right now" is common in English, but its pronunciation can be tricky for non-native speakers. This guide breaks down how to pronounce "right now" correctly, covering pronunciation details, common mistakes, and helpful tips.

Understanding the Individual Words

Before tackling the phrase as a whole, let's examine the pronunciation of each word separately:

Right

Phonetic Transcription: /raɪt/
Breakdown:
- r: A voiced alveolar approximant. The sound is made by placing the tongue near the alveolar ridge (the bumpy part behind your upper teeth).
- i: A high front unrounded vowel, like the "i" in "machine."
- gh: Silent in this word.
- t: A voiceless alveolar plosive. This sound involves stopping the airflow completely with your tongue at the alveolar ridge, then releasing it.

Now

Phonetic Transcription: /naʊ/
Breakdown:
- n: A voiced alveolar nasal. The sound is made by releasing air through your nose with your tongue touching the alveolar ridge.
- au: A diphthong (a sound that glides between two vowel sounds), similar to the "ow" in "cow." Start with the "a" sound in "father" and glide to the "u" sound in "put."
- w: A voiced bilabial approximant. The sound is made by rounding your lips.

Putting it Together: Pronouncing "Right Now"

When pronouncing "right now" together, the words blend smoothly. There's no significant pause between them. Aim for a natural flow.

Phonetic Transcription: /raɪt naʊ/
Emphasis: Typically, both words receive roughly equal stress. However, depending on context, you might emphasize "now" slightly more to indicate urgency.

Common Mistakes

Mispronunciation of the diphthong in "now": The "ow" sound in "now" is a common stumbling block. Be sure to glide smoothly between the two vowel sounds. Don't make it sound like "nau" with a short "a" sound.
Adding an extra sound: Some learners might add an extra sound between "right" and "now," such as a glottal stop (a brief pause). Avoid this.
Incorrect stress: While usually both words have equal stress, be mindful of context. In a sentence like, "You need to do it right now!", the emphasis would fall on "now."

Tips for Perfect Pronunciation

Listen and Repeat: Listen to native speakers pronounce "right now" multiple times. Pay close attention to the sounds and their flow. Then, repeat after them.
Record Yourself: Record yourself saying "right now" and compare it to native speaker recordings. This helps identify areas for improvement.
Use Online Resources: Utilize online pronunciation dictionaries or apps like Forvo or Merriam-Webster to hear audio pronunciations.
Practice in Context: Practice using the phrase in sentences. This helps improve your fluency and natural pronunciation.

Mastering the Phrase

With consistent practice and attention to detail, you'll master the pronunciation of "right now" and speak English with greater confidence. Remember to focus on the individual sounds and the smooth transition between words. Good luck!