What it means
A classic South African time wobble. Just now doesn't mean immediately, and it doesn't mean a minute ago either. It means soon, but with stretchy edges. Could be ten minutes, could be two hours, could vanish into the mist entirely. It's less urgent than now now, and locals use it with a straight face while your whole schedule quietly melts.
Usage examples
"The plumber said he would be here just now, so obviously I have made coffee, started a series, and resigned myself to fixing the tap myself"
"I'll bring you the report just now, let me finish this email first."
"She said she'd be here just now, so could be ten minutes, could be an hour."
"I'm coming just now, bru, I just need to find my keys and put petrol in first."
"Ja, he'll sort it out just now, so don't stand by the gate holding your breath."
Where it comes from
In South African English, just now took on a local meaning shaped by Afrikaans time wording, especially the influence of nou and nou-nou. Instead of meaning right this second, it settled into that famous elastic zone of soon-ish. It's now a proper fixture of everyday South African speech and a classic trap for newcomers.
Other ways to say it
Editors of this term
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