01
nun
now
Indicates the current point in time and is a synonym of 'jetzt' (now).
example
Früher war hier ein Feld, nun steht hier ein Supermarkt.
There used to be a field here; now there is a supermarket here.
nun
now / well
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 04
Usage tips
Sentence position
When 'nun' comes at the beginning of a sentence, the conjugated verb usually follows directly. This word order (inversion) is typical when 'nun' introduces a temporal or logical sequence.
EXAMPLE
Nun beginnt die Vorstellung.
Now the performance begins.
Distinguishing meanings
To recognize the meaning, pay attention to the sentence structure. If 'nun' introduces a logical consequence, it is like 'deshalb' (therefore). If it marks a point in time, it is like 'jetzt' (now). As a particle in the middle of a sentence, it often expresses an emotion.
EXAMPLE
Es hat geregnet. Nun sind die Straßen nass.
It rained. Now the streets are wet.
Register and style
In the meaning of 'jetzt' (now), 'nun' is often used in written language or in a somewhat more formal, narrative style. It can mark a transition in a story or argument.
EXAMPLE
Nach langer Diskussion kamen sie nun zu einem Ergebnis.
After a long discussion, they now came to a conclusion.
Fixed expressions
As a particle, 'nun' is part of fixed expressions such as 'nun ja' (well) or 'nun gut' (all right then). These often express slight resignation or acceptance.
EXAMPLE
Nun ja, da kann man nichts machen.
Well, there's nothing you can do about that.
As a short question
The single question 'Nun?' (Well?) is a very direct prompt to speak or react. It creates an expectation in the other person.
EXAMPLE
Ich habe meine Geschichte beendet. Nun? Was meinst du?
I've finished my story. Well? What do you think?
Compare with
nun vs aber
but
'aber' and 'nun' can both help you continue speaking after a pause in conversations. 'aber' often leads back to the actual topic or introduces a contrast. 'nun' sounds more like a calm transition: you continue the story, soften something, or show that you accept the situation. They can be confused because both sometimes do not carry much information of their own. If you mean a clear contrast, use 'aber'. If you only want to keep speaking or introduce something cautiously, 'nun' fits better.
nun
Nun, bei der Arbeit lernen wir jeden Tag etwas Neues.
Well, at work we learn something new every day.
aber
Im Restaurant ist es gemütlich, aber die Bedienung ist heute sehr langsam.
The restaurant is cozy, but the service is very slow today.
In real life
Loading video examples...