How to say “at the moment” like a native speaker
This means “now” or “during the present period”. It often describes a situation that could change.
All phrases · Small talk
Hear “at the moment” in real speech
Clip 1 · English with Alex · engVid
“Hello. How may I help you?” | Phone English for Professionals · 7:03
About this video
Alex teaches English for answering the phone at work, especially at reception. He gives examples for dealing with callers, confirming who is speaking and arranging appointments.
In context
"She's not in today.""He's occupied at the moment."
"She's on vacation until Monday."
Clip 2 · BBC Learning English
Do you like cleaning? 🚽🧹🧽 | Improve your listening skills with Real Easy English · 4:15
About this video
Phil and another BBC Learning English presenter discuss housework and cleaning. Phil describes getting his home ready for visitors, and the conversation turns to cleaning jobs they dislike.
In context
Phil, that is so exciting.Even better – because it's summer at the moment, I can get it dry so quick.
It's amazing!
Clip 3 · Sir Ken Robinson
Bring on the learning revolution! | Ken Robinson · 4:33
About this video
Ken Robinson calls for changes in education in this follow-up to his earlier TED talk. He questions the assumption that everyone needs the same route through college.
In context
And you might imagine education would be the way that happens, but too often, it's not.Every education system in the world is being reformed at the moment and it's not enough.
Reform is no use anymore, because that's simply improving a broken model.
When to use “at the moment”
- Explaining why you cannot answer a call: “I'm in a meeting at the moment.”
- Describing a temporary arrangement: “We're staying with my sister at the moment.”
Common learner mistake
Include “the” in this expression: “at the moment”, not “at moment”.
Possible connected-speech patterns in “at the moment”
“At” and “the” are usually lighter than “moment”. Stress the first syllable of “moment”.
Related phrases
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