now-now

Now-now means: South African English slang for 'in a little while' or 'very soon' - but with a catch: it usually means slightly later than 'now' but sooner than 'just now,' making it part of South Africa's. It is mainly South African English and may not be understood outside that context. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour.

now-now means: South African English slang for 'in a little while' or 'very soon' - but with a catch: it usually means slightly later than 'now' but sooner than 'just now,' making it part of. Register: very informal, slang. Suitable only for casual conversation, chat and social media. Do not use in business, academic or news writing. A common learner mistake is using the word in a register it does not fit, or assuming a single global meaning; native speakers immediately notice when slang appears in formal contexts, so always check the surrounding register before producing it yourself.