Learning Turkish can be a delightful journey, especially when you start to understand the nuances of its vocabulary. Two of the most fundamental concepts you’ll encounter are “now” and “later,” or in Turkish, **”şimdi”** and **”sonra.”** This article will delve deep into the use of these two words, providing you with a comprehensive understanding to help you use them effectively in your conversations. Additionally, we’ll cover related vocabulary to expand your grasp of time-related expressions in Turkish.

Understanding “Şimdi” (Now)

Şimdi – This word translates directly to “now” in English. It is used to describe the current moment or the present time.

Ben şimdi evdeyim.

In this sentence, “şimdi” indicates that the speaker is at home at this very moment.

Hemen – While often translated as “immediately” or “right away,” this word can be used interchangeably with “şimdi” to indicate urgency or promptness.

Lütfen hemen buraya gel.

The use of “hemen” here emphasizes that the action should be done without delay.

Derhal – Another word for “immediately,” often used in formal contexts. It implies an even stronger sense of urgency than “hemen.”

Toplantıya derhal başlamalıyız.

This sentence underscores the need to start the meeting without any delay.

Şu anda – This phrase means “at this moment” or “right now.” It provides a more specific sense of the present.

Şu anda çalışıyorum.

It indicates that the action of working is happening at this very moment.

Usage in Daily Conversations

Bugün – Meaning “today,” this word is often used with “şimdi” to emphasize that something is happening on the current day.

Bugün şimdi alışveriş yapmalıyız.

Here, “bugün” sets the time frame for “şimdi,” emphasizing the urgency within the same day.

Bu an – Directly translating to “this moment,” it is often used in a poetic or emotional context.

Bu anı asla unutmayacağım.

The phrase “bu an” highlights a specific, memorable moment in time.

Understanding “Sonra” (Later)

Sonra – This word translates to “later” in English. It is used to refer to a time in the future, after the present moment.

Yemekten sonra yürüyüşe çıkalım.

In this context, “sonra” indicates that the walk will happen after eating.

Daha sonra – Literally translating to “more later,” this phrase is used to specify a time further into the future than “sonra.”

Daha sonra konuşuruz.

This phrase indicates that the conversation will happen at a much later time.

Birazdan – Meaning “in a little while,” it suggests a short delay before the action takes place.

Birazdan görüşürüz.

Here, “birazdan” implies that the meeting will occur shortly.

Gelecekte – This word translates to “in the future” and is used for events that will happen a significant time from now.

Gelecekte ne olacağını kimse bilemez.

It implies an indefinite, often distant, future time.

Usage in Daily Conversations

Yarın – Meaning “tomorrow,” this word is often used with “sonra” to specify something happening the next day.

Yarın sonra toplantımız var.

Here, “yarın” sets the time frame for “sonra,” indicating the event will happen the day after today.

Gelecek hafta – Translating to “next week,” this phrase is used to indicate events happening in the following week.

Gelecek hafta sonra tatildeyiz.

This phrase specifies that the holiday will occur in the week after the current one.

Bir gün – Meaning “one day” or “someday,” it is used to talk about an indefinite future time.

Bir gün sonra olacak.

It implies that the event will happen at an unspecified future date.

Combining “Şimdi” and “Sonra”

Often, both words are used together in sentences to contrast the present with the future. Understanding how to use them in tandem can significantly enhance your fluency.

Şimdi – As mentioned, this word means “now.”

Şimdi ders çalışıyorum.

This indicates the action of studying is happening at the present moment.

Sonra – Meaning “later,” it contrasts with “şimdi” to indicate a future time.

Şimdi çalışıyorum, sonra dinleneceğim.

This sentence contrasts the current action (studying) with a future action (resting).

Common Phrases

Şimdi ve sonra – Translating to “now and later,” this phrase is often used to discuss plans or actions spanning different times.

Bu konuyu şimdi ve sonra konuşacağız.

It indicates that the topic will be discussed both now and at a later time.

Şimdi değil – Meaning “not now,” this phrase is used to postpone an action.

Şimdi değil, sonra yaparız.

This phrase postpones the action to a later time.

Sonra görüşürüz – Translating to “see you later,” this common phrase is used for casual goodbyes.

Tamam, sonra görüşürüz.

It indicates that you will meet the person again at a future time.

Additional Time-Related Vocabulary

To further enhance your understanding and usage of “şimdi” and “sonra,” it’s helpful to learn additional time-related vocabulary.

Geçmiş – This word means “past” and is used to refer to any time before the present.

Geçmiş zamanları özlüyorum.

It indicates a longing for times that have already occurred.

Şu anda – As mentioned earlier, it means “at this moment.”

Şu anda evdeyim.

This indicates the action of being at home is happening right now.

Aynı anda – This phrase means “at the same time” and is used to describe simultaneous actions.

Aynı anda iki işi yapamam.

It indicates the inability to perform two actions simultaneously.

O zaman – Translating to “at that time,” this phrase is often used to refer to a specific point in the past or future.

O zaman görüşürüz.

It implies that you will meet at the specified past or future time.

Biraz önce – Meaning “a little while ago,” this phrase is used to describe a recent past action.

Biraz önce geldim.

It indicates the action of arriving happened not long ago.

Biraz sonra – As mentioned earlier, it means “in a little while” and indicates a short delay before an action.

Biraz sonra görüşürüz.

It implies that the meeting will occur shortly.

Hemen şimdi – This phrase translates to “right now” and is used for immediate actions.

Hemen şimdi gitmeliyiz.

It indicates the action must be done immediately.

Gelecek – This word means “future” and is used to refer to any time after the present.

Gelecek planlarım var.

It indicates having plans for a future time.

Az önce – Meaning “just now,” this phrase describes an action that happened very recently.

Az önce aradım.

It indicates the action of calling happened just moments ago.

Practical Exercises

To help solidify your understanding of “şimdi” and “sonra,” here are some practical exercises you can try:

1. **Write sentences:** Create your own sentences using “şimdi” and “sonra” to describe your daily routine. For example, “Şimdi kahvaltı yapıyorum, sonra işe gideceğim.”

2. **Role-play:** Practice a conversation with a friend or language partner where you discuss your plans for the day using “şimdi” and “sonra.”

3. **Time-based storytelling:** Write a short story or diary entry, alternating between events happening “şimdi” and those that will happen “sonra.”

By practicing these exercises, you will become more comfortable using these time-related words in various contexts.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between “şimdi” and “sonra” is crucial for effective communication in Turkish. These words help you articulate when actions are happening, whether in the present moment or at a future time. By incorporating related vocabulary and practicing their use in daily conversations, you can enhance your fluency and confidently express yourself in Turkish. Happy learning!