Definition

1. Interjection:
   • A mild expression of rebuke, admonition, or soothing: Used to gently chide someone for impatience, excitement, or distress, or to calm them down. It often implies "be patient," "calm down," or "not so fast."

Usage

• The phrase "now now" is used as a standalone interjection, typically repeated for emphasis. It directly addresses someone's behavior or emotional state to correct or soothe it.
• It is often spoken in a gentle, calming, or slightly scolding tone.

Examples

• As an interjection of gentle rebuke or admonition:
  • "Now now, there's no need to raise your voice." (A mild scolding for being loud or angry.)
  • "Now now, let's not jump to conclusions." (Admonishing someone for being hasty in judgment.)
• As an interjection of soothing or calming:
  • "Now now, everything will be alright." (Used to comfort someone who is upset.)
  • "Now now, don't cry." (An attempt to soothe a distressed person, often a child.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase can sometimes carry a slightly patronizing or condescending nuance, depending on the tone and context, especially when used with adults.
• It is frequently used by authority figures (e.g., parents, teachers, nurses) or narrators.

Variants and Related Words

• There, there: A more common interjection used exclusively for soothing, not for rebuke.
• Easy now: A similar phrase used to calm someone or an animal.
• Steady on: A British English interjection used to check someone's excessive behavior.

Synonyms

• Calm down: (Instruction, not an interjection) To become quiet or relaxed.
• Easy: (Interjection) Used to urge caution or calmness.
• Hush: (Interjection) A command to be quiet, often used for soothing.

Related Phrases

• Now, now, don't get upset: A common extended phrase combining rebuke and comfort.
• Now, now, that's enough: A phrase used to stop a behavior, blending admonition with a call to cease.

Adverb

1. interjection of rebuke