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English Idioms


NOW THEN...

Clmcv
User since 2011
Posts: 2

16 Nov. 2011

Is someone can help me with this expression ? : "Now then Clara. It was a funny week end". What does it mean "Now then..." Cheers !

5 comments

  • User since 2008
    Posts: 499

    17 Nov. 2011

    It's similar to "Well (then) " and something like an indirect introduction or a segway to a farewell: "Well, then ... it was a nice evening. Bye!"


    It's often used sheepishly, when somebody wants to say farewell, but is too embarrassed to say it frankly: "Now then ... it was a nice evening" actually meaning "Please leave now. Good night!".


    Or, sometimes, it's the opposite, that is, he doesn't dare to say he actually wants to continue the evening but finds it too obstrusive to say it frankly: "Now then...it was a nice evening..." actually meaning "I want you to stay, but I don't dare to say so."
  • User since 2009
    Posts: 613

    17 Nov. 2011

    would mean that it depends if it is a ram or a ewe ?
  • User since 2011
    Posts: 2

    17 Nov. 2011

    Thanks !
  • User since 2008
    Posts: 499

    17 Nov. 2011

    From EpsilonBrain:
    would mean that it depends if it is a ram or a ewe ?

     
    No lewd allussions, please - ram or ewe! Remember, we might have young people around here...
  • User since 2009
    Posts: 613

    1 Dec. 2011

    NOW THEN, WHAT ELSE, coffee...

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