Common Mistakes When Using ‘at the moment’ in a Sentence

The phrase “at the moment” means “right now” or “at the present time.” Many English learners use it correctly in simple sentences, but common mistakes happen with tense, word order, and formality. This guide explains those mistakes directly, so you can use “at the moment” naturally in conversation, email, and writing.

Quick Answer: How to Use ‘at the moment’ Correctly

Use “at the moment” to describe something happening right now. It works best with present continuous tense (I am working) or present simple tense for states (I need help). Do not use it with past or future tenses unless you are quoting someone. Place it at the beginning or end of a sentence, not in the middle. In formal writing, “currently” or “right now” often sounds better.

Common Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Tense

The biggest mistake learners make is using “at the moment” with a past or future tense. Because “at the moment” means “now,” the verb must match present time.

Incorrect Examples

• I was busy at the moment. (past tense – wrong)
• I will call you at the moment. (future tense – wrong)
• She finished her work at the moment. (past tense – wrong)

Correct Examples

• I am busy at the moment.
• I am calling you at the moment.
• She is finishing her work at the moment.

Tip: If you want to talk about the past, use “at that moment” or “at the time.” For the future, use “soon” or “in a moment.”

Common Mistake 2: Placing ‘at the moment’ in the Middle of a Sentence

“At the moment” is a time phrase. In English, time phrases usually go at the beginning or end of a sentence, not in the middle. Placing it in the middle can confuse the reader.

Incorrect Examples

• I am, at the moment, working on the report.
• She is, at the moment, not available.

Correct Examples

• At the moment, I am working on the report.
• I am working on the report at the moment.
• She is not available at the moment.

Tip: In spoken English, you can pause after “at the moment” for emphasis, but in writing, keep it at the start or end.

Common Mistake 3: Using ‘at the moment’ in Formal Writing

“At the moment” is common in everyday conversation and informal emails. In formal writing, such as business reports or academic essays, it can sound too casual. Use “currently” or “at present” instead.

Tip: In formal writing, replace “at the moment” with “currently” or “at present.” In conversation, “at the moment” is natural and friendly.

Common Mistake 4: Confusing ‘at the moment’ with ‘at that moment’

Learners often mix “at the moment” (now) with “at that moment” (a specific time in the past). This changes the meaning entirely.

Incorrect Example

• He arrived at the moment I was leaving. (This means “now,” which is confusing if the story is in the past.)

Correct Example

• He arrived at that moment I was leaving. (This means a specific past time.)

Tip: Use “at that moment” for past stories. Use “at the moment” only for present time.

Natural Examples of ‘at the moment’ in Sentences

Here are natural examples in different contexts. Notice the tense and placement.

In Conversation

• “Can you talk?” “Sorry, I am driving at the moment.”
• At the moment, she is cooking dinner.
• I do not have any free time at the moment.

In Email (Informal)

• At the moment, I am waiting for the client’s feedback.
• We are not hiring at the moment.

In Writing (Neutral Tone)

• The team is focused on the project at the moment.
• At the moment, the weather is rainy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using “at the moment” with past tense. Fix: Use present tense or “at that moment.”
• Mistake: Placing it in the middle of a sentence. Fix: Move it to the start or end.
• Mistake: Using it in formal writing. Fix: Use “currently” or “at present.”
• Mistake: Confusing it with “at that moment.” Fix: Use “at that moment” for past events.

Better Alternatives to ‘at the moment’

Depending on the context, you can replace “at the moment” with these phrases.

• Currently: Best for formal writing and business emails.
• Right now: Best for conversation and informal writing.
• At present: Best for formal writing and reports.
• Now: Simple and works in most contexts.
• For now: Use when something is temporary.

When to Use ‘at the moment’

Use “at the moment” when you want to emphasize that something is happening exactly now, and you are speaking or writing informally. It is perfect for everyday conversation, text messages, and casual emails.

Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding

Choose the correct option for each sentence.

Question 1

I _____ at the moment.

• A) was sleeping
• B) am sleeping
• C) will sleep

Answer: B) am sleeping

Question 2

Which sentence is correct?

• A) At the moment, she is reading a book.
• B) She is, at the moment, reading a book.
• C) Both are correct.

Answer: A) At the moment, she is reading a book. (Option B is awkward in writing.)

Question 3

Which is better for a formal email?

• A) We are reviewing your file at the moment.
• B) We are currently reviewing your file.

Answer: B) We are currently reviewing your file.

Question 4

Fill in the blank: He called me ____ I was leaving.

• A) at the moment
• B) at that moment

Answer: B) at that moment

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ‘at the moment’ at the beginning of a sentence?

Yes. “At the moment, I am working” is correct and common. It adds emphasis to the time.

2. Is ‘at the moment’ formal or informal?

It is informal to neutral. In formal writing, use “currently” or “at present.”

3. Can I use ‘at the moment’ with the past tense?

No. Use “at that moment” for past events. “At the moment” only works with present time.

4. What is the difference between ‘at the moment’ and ‘right now’?

They mean the same thing. “Right now” is slightly more common in American English. “At the moment” is a little more formal but still informal overall.

For more help with common English mistakes, visit our Common Usage Mistakes section. You can also explore Simple Sentence Examples and Daily English Sentences for more practice. If you have questions, check our FAQ or contact us.