per ora
Lemma: per ora
Translation: for now; for the time being; at present; at the moment (adverbial phrase)
Etymology: Composed of the preposition 'per' (for, through) and the noun 'ora' (hour, time). 'Per' derives from Latin 'per' (through, during), while 'ora' comes from Latin 'hora' (hour, time), which ultimately derives from Greek 'ὥρα' (hōra, time, season). The combination creates a temporal expression indicating a temporary state or condition.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'per' as 'for' and 'ora' as 'hour' or 'now' - literally 'for now'.
- Remember that 'ora' sounds like 'hour' in English, so 'per ora' is like saying 'for this hour' or 'for this time'.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is very commonly used in everyday Italian conversation to indicate temporary situations or provisional decisions. It's neutral in register and appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'per ora' means 'for now' or 'at the moment', 'da ora in poi' means 'from now on', indicating the beginning of a continuing action or state.
Notes: The confusion often arises because both phrases contain 'ora' (now), but they indicate different temporal relationships.
Mnemonic: 'Per ora' looks back or at present (temporary), while 'da ora in poi' looks forward (continuing).
Explanation: 'Per ora' refers to the present moment or a temporary situation, while 'finora' (until now, so far) refers to the period from some point in the past up to the present.
Notes: Both phrases are temporal expressions but with different scopes of time.
Mnemonic: 'Per ora' is about the present moment, 'finora' is about the journey to this moment.