I have a friend who seems to use the word now at the end of phrases that don't need it. She'll say "bye now" instead of just "bye" and "take care now" instead of "take care." Is this a regional difference, or just a personal quirk like saying "um"?

Funny you should bring up the word "now." I have noticed that I use it much more than I used to, especially at the beginning of sentences when I don't really need it. For example, I might say, "Now, I don't really care."

I must stop that!

quote:

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I must stop that!

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Now, now, Kalleh! Don't be hard on yourself now.

Over here it is seen as an American habit. If someone wants to imitate an American they might say something like "Have a nice day now, y'all." It would probably be said in a bad Southern accent.

Interesting, arnie. That is much like our saying to someone who is being all pompous, "Who do you think you are, the Queen of England?!"

I think you look better in our imitation than we do in yours.

Now, then !
Now, then !

Oops, I think that belongs in the oxymorons thread.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: BobHale,

Excellent example, Bob. Very funny!


I apparenlty haven't been keeping up on all the threads - totally missed this post til now.