Other ways to say “at the moment” are alternative expressions used to describe something happening now, currently, or during the present period. If you’ve come across the phrase “at the moment” and want to avoid repetition, sound more natural, or choose an expression that fits a specific context, several alternatives can work depending on the situation.
The phrase “at the moment” means now, currently, or at the present time. Common alternatives include right now, currently, at present, for now, at this time, as of now, these days, and in the meantime. Although these expressions can have similar meanings, some are more appropriate for formal writing, casual conversation, temporary situations, or specific time references.
In this guide, you’ll learn 27 natural ways to say “at the moment,” what each expression means, when to use it, and how it works in real sentences. You’ll also see clear examples that show the differences between alternatives such as “right now,” “currently,” “at present,” and “for now.”
By the end, you’ll know exactly which alternatives to “at the moment” sound natural in everyday conversation, professional writing, emails, and formal contexts, so you can choose the right expression without making your writing repetitive.
Getting Started: What Does “At the Moment” Mean?
At the moment means now, at the present time, or during the current period.
It usually describes something that is true or happening around the time of speaking or writing.
For example:
- “I’m busy at the moment.”
- “She’s working from home at the moment.”
- “We don’t have enough information at the moment.”
- “The store is closed at the moment.”
- “He isn’t looking for a new job at the moment.”
The expression does not necessarily mean this exact second. Depending on context, it can refer to a broader temporary period.
Compare:
“I can’t talk at the moment.”
This usually means I cannot talk now, perhaps because the speaker is busy.
But:
“I’m living in Chicago at the moment.”
This can describe a temporary situation lasting weeks or months rather than a single instant.
“At the Moment” in Everyday English
At the moment is natural and common in everyday English. It works particularly well when describing a current condition, activity, availability, or temporary situation.
It can appear at the beginning or end of a sentence:
- “At the moment, we’re reviewing the applications.”
- “We’re reviewing the applications at the moment.”
The phrase is especially useful when you want to emphasize that a situation is current but potentially temporary.
That distinction matters because English has several expressions for present time.
Currently tends to sound slightly more neutral or professional. Right now can emphasize the immediate present. For now often suggests that a situation is temporary. Nowadays usually refers to the present era or current general trends rather than this particular moment.
Cambridge describes now as meaning “at the present time” and notes that right now can also mean immediately.
Other Ways to Say “At the Moment”
Here are 27 alternatives, but remember that they are not all exact synonyms. The best choice depends on whether you mean this exact moment, the current period, a temporary arrangement, or the present era.
| Alternative | Best Use | Tone |
| Currently | Current situations | Neutral/professional |
| Right now | Immediate present | Casual/direct |
| At present | Current situation | Formal |
| For now | Temporary situation | Neutral |
| As of now | Current status | Professional |
| At this time | Current circumstances | Neutral/formal |
| Presently | Current situation | Formal/neutral |
| These days | Current period | Conversational |
| Today | Current day/period | Neutral |
| For the time being | Temporary arrangement | Formal/neutral |
| In the meantime | During the intervening period | Neutral |
| At this point | Current stage | Neutral |
| As things stand | Current circumstances | Neutral/formal |
| For the present | Temporary current situation | Formal |
| At this moment | Immediate present | Neutral |
| At this very moment | Exact present | Emphatic |
| At the present time | Current period | Formal |
| At the minute | Current moment | Informal/regional |
| At the present moment | Current time | Formal |
| Nowadays | Present era | Neutral |
| In the present | Current situation/time | Formal |
| In the here and now | Present experience | Conversational |
| At this stage | Current phase | Professional |
| At this juncture | Current point in a process | Formal |
| As of this moment | Current status | Formal |
| For the moment | Temporary situation | Neutral |
| Just now | Very recent/current moment | Informal |
Currently
Currently is probably the closest professional alternative to at the moment.
It means at the present time and works particularly well in business, academic, technical, and professional writing. Cambridge defines currently as “at the present time.”
Examples:
- “The team is currently reviewing your application.”
- “We are currently accepting new clients.”
- “The product is currently unavailable.”
- “She is currently working on a new project.”
Best for: emails, reports, websites, business communication, and professional conversations.
Right Now
Right now emphasizes the immediate present.
It is more conversational than currently and can suggest this exact moment.
- “I’m busy right now.”
- “I can’t talk right now.”
- “What are you doing right now?”
- “We need an answer right now.”
It can also mean immediately, as in:
“You need to leave right now.”
Cambridge notes both meanings: present time and immediate action.
Best for: conversations, texting, casual emails, and situations requiring emphasis.
At Present
At present is a more formal alternative to at the moment.
Cambridge specifically labels at present as a formal expression meaning now.
- “We have no further information at present.”
- “The company is not hiring at present.”
- “She is working abroad at present.”
It works particularly well in formal correspondence and professional writing.
For Now
For now means at the present time, usually with an implication that the situation may change later.
- “You can use this room for now.”
- “Let’s leave the decision for now.”
- “I’m staying with my parents for now.”
- “This solution should work for now.”
This is an important distinction. For now often carries a sense of temporary acceptance.
Compare:
“I’m working from home at the moment.”
This simply describes your current situation.
“I’m working from home for now.”
This suggests that you expect the arrangement could change.
As of Now
As of now means according to the current situation or information available at this time.
It is particularly useful when giving a status update.
- “As of now, we have received 120 applications.”
- “As of now, the project is still on schedule.”
- “There are no changes as of now.”
It can sound more administrative or status-oriented than at the moment.
At This Time
At this time is a neutral-to-formal alternative.
- “We are unable to offer refunds at this time.”
- “No decision has been made at this time.”
- “The service is unavailable at this time.”
It is especially common in customer service and official communication.
Presently
Presently can mean currently, although it can have different meanings depending on dialect and context.
For example:
“The manager is presently unavailable.”
means the manager is unavailable now.
In formal writing, it can replace currently, but currently is often clearer for modern general-purpose communication.
These Days
These days refers to the current period of life or recent times, rather than necessarily this exact moment.
- “I’m working from home these days.”
- “People spend more time online these days.”
- “She’s very busy these days.”
It is therefore not a perfect substitute for at the moment.
You would not normally say:
“I’m on the phone these days.”
if you mean you are on the phone right now.
Today
Today refers literally to the current day, but it can sometimes refer more broadly to the current period.
- “I’m working from home today.”
- “The office is closed today.”
- “We’re meeting today.”
It is useful when the relevant timeframe is specifically this day, rather than the broader present.
For the Time Being
For the time being means for now or until circumstances change.
- “You can stay here for the time being.”
- “We’ll continue using the existing system for the time being.”
- “The road will remain closed for the time being.”
This phrase emphasizes temporary duration.
In the Meantime
In the meantime is different from at the moment.
It means during the period before something else happens.
For example:
“The technician will arrive tomorrow. In the meantime, please restart the device.”
You are not simply saying something is happening now. You are describing what happens while waiting for another event.
At This Point
At this point refers to the current stage of a situation, decision, process, or discussion.
- “At this point, we need more information.”
- “I don’t think we can change the plan at this point.”
- “At this point, everything is going according to schedule.”
It often emphasizes the current stage rather than the exact present moment.
As Things Stand
As things stand means according to the current situation.
- “As things stand, we’ll finish by Friday.”
- “As things stand, there are no plans to expand.”
- “As things stand, the proposal will go ahead.”
This expression is useful when circumstances could still change.
For the Present
For the present means for now and has a more formal or literary tone.
- “We will remain here for the present.”
- “The current arrangement will continue for the present.”
It is less conversational than for now.
At This Moment
At this moment emphasizes the current instant.
- “She is speaking to a client at this moment.”
- “I cannot answer that question at this moment.”
- “Nothing unusual is happening at this moment.”
It is natural but can sound slightly more emphatic than at the moment.
At This Very Moment
At this very moment strongly emphasizes the exact present.
- “He may be boarding the plane at this very moment.”
- “Somewhere, someone is making the same decision at this very moment.”
This phrase is more dramatic and expressive than the standard at the moment.
At the Present Time
At the present time is a formal expression meaning now.
- “The facility is not open at the present time.”
- “We have no vacancies at the present time.”
- “The policy remains unchanged at the present time.”
In everyday conversation, however, currently or right now will usually sound more natural.
At the Minute
At the minute means at the moment and is particularly associated with British and Irish usage.
- “I’m busy at the minute.”
- “We’re not accepting orders at the minute.”
For broad international or US-focused writing, at the moment or currently is generally safer.
At the Present Moment
At the present moment is another formal expression for the current time.
- “The information available at the present moment is incomplete.”
- “We cannot confirm the details at the present moment.”
It can sound somewhat more formal than necessary in everyday speech.
Nowadays
Nowadays refers to the present era or modern times, not necessarily the exact moment when someone is speaking.
- “People communicate differently nowadays.”
- “Many businesses operate online nowadays.”
- “It is easier to access information nowadays.”
It is therefore closer to these days than right now.
In the Present
In the present emphasizes the current time or current experience.
- “We need to focus on the present.”
- “The answer lies in the present circumstances.”
It is more abstract than at the moment and is often used in philosophical, reflective, or formal contexts.
In the Here and Now
In the here and now means in the present moment or current experience.
- “Try to focus on the here and now.”
- “The exercise encourages you to stay in the here and now.”
It has a more expressive or conversational quality than currently.
At This Stage
At this stage is useful when discussing a process, project, investigation, or decision.
- “At this stage, we need more evidence.”
- “We don’t know the final cost at this stage.”
- “At this stage, the project is still on schedule.”
It means at the current point in the process, not necessarily this exact second.
At This Juncture
At this juncture is a formal way to refer to the current point in a situation.
- “At this juncture, further research is required.”
- “There is little we can do at this juncture.”
It is appropriate for formal reports, speeches, and serious discussions, but can sound overly formal in casual conversation.
As of This Moment
As of this moment emphasizes the status of something at the current point in time.
- “As of this moment, no final decision has been made.”
- “As of this moment, we have no confirmation.”
It is especially useful for updates where information may change.
For the Moment
For the moment is similar to for now.
- “Let’s leave the issue for the moment.”
- “I’m staying here for the moment.”
- “This arrangement is sufficient for the moment.”
It can suggest that the current state is temporary.
Just Now
Just now can be tricky because its meaning varies by context and dialect.
It can refer to something that happened very recently:
“She called me just now.”
It can also refer to the current moment in some varieties of English:
“I’m busy just now.”
Cambridge notes that just now can refer either to something very recent or, in some usage, the present time.
Because of this ambiguity, currently or right now may be clearer when precision matters.
Professional Alternatives to “At the Moment”
When writing professionally, the goal is usually to sound clear rather than artificially formal.
These alternatives work particularly well:
- Currently
- At present
- At this time
- As of now
- At this stage
- At this point
- As things stand
Examples in Professional Communication
Instead of:
“We’re not accepting applications at the moment.”
You could write:
“We’re currently not accepting applications.”
Or:
“We are not accepting applications at present.”
Instead of:
“We don’t have an update at the moment.”
Try:
“We don’t have an update at this time.”
The second versions sound more deliberate and work better in customer service, workplace communication, and formal correspondence.
Formal Alternatives to “At the Moment”
For formal writing, consider:
- At present
- At this time
- At the present time
- At the present moment
- For the present
- At this juncture
- As of this moment
However, formal does not automatically mean better.
For example, this sentence is grammatically acceptable:
“We are unable to provide the requested documentation at the present moment.”
But this is cleaner:
“We are currently unable to provide the requested documentation.”
Good formal writing usually prioritizes precision and economy rather than using the longest possible phrase.
Casual Alternatives to “At the Moment”
For everyday conversation, these sound natural:
- Right now
- Now
- These days
- For now
- Just now
- At the minute
- In the here and now
Examples:
“I’m busy right now.”
“I’m not looking for a new apartment for now.”
“I’ve been really busy these days.”
“I can’t talk now.”
The best casual expression depends on what you mean. Right now is particularly useful when you want to emphasize the immediate present.
Alternatives to “At the Moment” in a Work Email
In professional email, currently is often the safest replacement.
Example: Project Update
Instead of:
“We’re working on the issue at the moment.”
Use:
“We’re currently working on the issue and will provide an update as soon as we have more information.”
Example: Delayed Response
Instead of:
“I’m busy at the moment.”
Use:
“I’m currently tied up with another project, but I’ll get back to you later today.”
Example: Unavailable Service
Instead of:
“The service is unavailable at the moment.”
Use:
“The service is currently unavailable. We’re working to restore access as soon as possible.”
Example: No Decision Yet
Instead of:
“We don’t have a decision at the moment.”
Use:
“At this time, we have not reached a final decision.”
Quick Email Guide
| Situation | Recommended phrase |
| Current work | Currently |
| Current status | As of now |
| Temporary arrangement | For now |
| Formal response | At present |
| Service unavailable | At this time |
| Current project stage | At this stage |
| Immediate availability | Right now |
| Waiting for another event | In the meantime |
“Currently” vs. “Right Now”
Both expressions refer to the present, but they do not always carry the same emphasis.
Currently usually describes a current state or ongoing situation.
“She is currently working in Boston.”
Right now focuses more strongly on the immediate present.
“She is talking to her manager right now.”
A useful distinction is:
Currently = current situation
Right now = immediate moment
Cambridge similarly distinguishes now as present-time usage from right now, which can emphasize the present or mean immediately.
“At Present” vs. “At the Moment”
These expressions are very close in meaning.
“I’m not available at the moment.”
“I’m not available at present.”
Both can mean that the person is unavailable now.
The major difference is tone.
At the moment is natural and conversational.
At present is more formal.
For everyday speech, choose at the moment.
For a formal report or official statement, at present may fit better.
“For Now” vs. “At the Moment”
These expressions overlap but are not identical.
“I’m staying here at the moment.”
This describes your current situation.
“I’m staying here for now.”
This suggests that you may leave or change the arrangement later.
The word for is important because it introduces the idea of duration.
When you want to communicate temporary plans, for now is usually more precise.
“At the Moment” vs. “In the Meantime”
These phrases should not normally be treated as direct synonyms.
At the moment = now.
In the meantime = during the period before something else happens.
For example:
“The doctor is unavailable at the moment.”
This tells us about the doctor’s current availability.
“The doctor will return at 3 p.m. In the meantime, please wait here.”
This tells us what should happen during the waiting period.
The distinction is simple: at the moment identifies when something is true; in the meantime describes what happens while waiting for another event.
“Nowadays” vs. “At the Moment”
Nowadays refers to the modern or current period.
At the moment usually refers to a current situation.
Compare:
“People shop online more often nowadays.”
This describes a broad modern trend.
“I’m shopping online at the moment.”
This describes what is happening now.
A helpful rule is:
Nowadays = these days / in modern times
At the moment = currently / now
How to Choose the Right Alternative
Choosing the right alternative becomes easier when you first identify the timeframe you mean.
Ask yourself:
Do you mean this exact moment?
Use:
- Right now
- At this moment
- At this very moment
Example:
“I’m speaking to a customer right now.”
Do you mean the current situation?
Use:
- Currently
- At present
- At this time
- As of now
Example:
“The company is currently reviewing the proposal.”
Do you mean a temporary arrangement?
Use:
- For now
- For the moment
- For the time being
- For the present
Example:
“We’ll use the old system for now.”
Do you mean the current stage of a process?
Use:
- At this stage
- At this point
- As things stand
- At this juncture
Example:
“At this stage, we need additional information.”
Do you mean modern times?
Use:
- Nowadays
- These days
- In the present
Example:
“Many people work remotely these days.”
Do you mean the period while waiting?
Use:
- In the meantime
Example:
“The results will arrive tomorrow. In the meantime, you can continue with the next step.”
A Practical Decision Guide
Here is a simple way to choose the right phrase:
If you mean “now” → use “currently.”
If you mean “this exact second” → use “right now.”
If you mean “temporarily” → use “for now.”
If you mean “formally, now” → use “at present.”
If you mean “during the waiting period” → use “in the meantime.”
If you mean “these modern days” → use “nowadays” or “these days.”
If you mean “the current phase” → use “at this stage.”
This approach prevents a common problem in synonym writing: replacing one phrase with another without checking whether the underlying meaning has changed.
Common Questions
What Are Other Ways to Say “At the Moment”?
Some common alternatives include currently, right now, at present, for now, as of now, at this time, presently, these days, for the time being, and at this point.
The best choice depends on the context.
What Is a Professional Way to Say “At the Moment”?
Currently is one of the most natural professional alternatives.
For example:
“We are currently reviewing your application.”
Other professional options include at present, at this time, as of now, and at this stage.
What Is a Formal Way to Say “At the Moment”?
Common formal alternatives include at present, at this time, at the present time, at the present moment, and at this juncture.
However, avoid choosing a formal phrase simply because it sounds sophisticated. Currently is often clearer.
What Is a Casual Way to Say “At the Moment”?
Right now and now are very natural casual alternatives.
For example:
“I can’t talk right now.”
You can also use for now when you mean that something is temporary.
What Can I Say Instead of “At the Moment” in an Email?
For most professional emails, use currently, at present, or at this time.
For example:
“We are currently reviewing your request.”
This is concise and professional.
Is “Currently” the Same as “At the Moment”?
They are often interchangeable because both can mean now or at the present time.
However, currently often works better in professional or written contexts, while at the moment sounds especially natural in everyday conversation.
Is “For Now” the Same as “At the Moment”?
Not exactly.
At the moment describes the current situation.
For now often suggests that the situation is temporary and may change later.
“I’m working from home at the moment.”
“I’m working from home for now.”
The second sentence more strongly suggests a temporary arrangement.
Is “At Present” a Good Replacement for “At the Moment”?
Yes. At present means now and is particularly suitable for formal English. Cambridge identifies it as a formal expression meaning “now.”
What Is Another Word for “At the Moment”?
Depending on the context, alternatives include currently, now, presently, and today.
However, phrases such as right now, for now, and at present can be more accurate replacements in specific situations.
What Is the Difference Between “At the Moment” and “Right Now”?
At the moment generally means now, while right now can place stronger emphasis on the immediate present.
“I’m busy at the moment.”
“I’m busy right now.”
The second sentence can sound more immediate.
What Is the Difference Between “At the Moment” and “Nowadays”?
At the moment usually describes a current situation.
Nowadays describes the present era or what is generally true in modern times.
“I’m working from home at the moment.”
“Many people work from home nowadays.”
What Is the Difference Between “At the Moment” and “In the Meantime”?
At the moment means now.
In the meantime means during the period before something else happens.
“She’s unavailable at the moment.”
“She’ll be back soon. In the meantime, please leave a message.”
Final Thoughts
There are plenty of natural other ways to say “at the moment,” but the best alternative depends on exactly what you want to communicate.
If you simply mean now, currently is usually the easiest professional replacement. If you want to emphasize the immediate present, choose right now. If you are describing a temporary arrangement, for now or for the time being may be more precise.
For formal writing, at present and at this time work well. When discussing a process, at this stage or at this point can communicate the idea more accurately. And if you are talking about modern life rather than a specific current situation, nowadays or these days is a better choice.
The key is not to treat every synonym as interchangeable. Time expressions carry subtle differences in immediacy, duration, formality, and context. Choosing the right one makes your English sound more precise and natural.
