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Present: meaning, definitions and examples

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present

 

[ˈprɛz(ə)nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

gift

Something that is given to someone as a way of showing appreciation, love, or gratitude. It can be a physical object, an experience, or a gesture.

Synonyms

gift, offering, token.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
present

Typically used in everyday contexts when referring to something given to someone on a special occasion like a birthday or holiday.

  • I gave her a present for her graduation.
  • He received many presents on Christmas morning.
gift

Can be used in both formal and informal settings to describe something given willingly to someone without payment.

  • She received a beautiful gift from her parents.
  • This book was a gift from my best friend.
offering

Often used in formal or religious contexts, implying something given as a part of a ritual or as an act of devotion.

  • They brought offerings to the temple.
  • The event had a variety of offerings for guests.
token

Used to describe a small item given as a souvenir or to show appreciation, typically carrying symbolic value rather than high monetary value.

  • As a token of our gratitude, please accept this small gift.
  • He gave her a token of love, a small charm bracelet.

Examples of usage

  • She received a beautiful present for her birthday.
  • He gave her a present to celebrate their anniversary.
Context #2 | Noun

time

The period of time that is happening now, the current moment. It can also refer to a ceremony or event where people gather together.

Synonyms

contemporary, current, now.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
present

This word is often used to denote something that is happening at this very moment or existing in the current timeframe.

  • At present, we are focusing on completing the project.
  • She is currently living in the present moment.
current

This term is used to describe something happening now or related to the present time. It is often used in formal contexts.

  • The current stock market trends are concerning many investors.
  • Our current address will change next month.
now

This term is used to refer to the immediate moment and is often used in casual contexts.

  • I want to finish this project now.
  • Now is the time to act.
contemporary

This term is used to describe something that is modern or belongs to the same time period as something else.

  • The museum features contemporary art.
  • He is a contemporary author who discusses modern issues.

Examples of usage

  • Let's focus on the present and not worry about the past or future.
  • The president will make a speech at the awards present.
Context #3 | Verb

introduce

To formally introduce someone to others, usually in a social or professional setting.

Synonyms

display, introduce, show.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
present

Commonly used for showing information or a performance to an audience.

  • He will present the financial report to the board.
  • They presented a new play at the theater.
introduce

Used when making someone known to another person or group, or when presenting a new concept or item for the first time.

  • Let me introduce you to my friend.
  • The company will introduce a new product next month.
show

Used in a casual context when making something visible or demonstrating how something works.

  • Can you show me how to fix this?
  • She showed her new dress to her friends.
display

Usually refers to arranging something so it can be seen by others, often in a public or prominent place.

  • They will display the new paintings in the gallery.
  • The shop displays its best products in the window.

Examples of usage

  • May I present my colleague, Dr. Smith?
  • She presented the award to the winner of the competition.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'present' comes from the Latin word 'praesentem', which means 'to be before' or 'to be in front of'.
  • In Old French, 'present' was used to refer to gifts given on special occasions.
  • The word has evolved to mean both a gift and the current moment, reflecting its dual significance.

Grammar

  • 'Present' can refer to the present tense, which describes actions happening now.
  • In English, we use 'simple present' and 'present continuous' to convey different types of ongoing actions.
  • Understanding the use of present helps in clarity when discussing current events.

Cultural Significance

  • Present-giving is a common tradition in many cultures, symbolizing goodwill, love, and appreciation.
  • The concept of a birthday present has evolved into elaborate celebrations with parties and gift exchanges worldwide.
  • In some cultures, gifts are opened immediately; in others, they're saved for later, reflecting cultural values around gratification.

Psychology

  • Receiving a present can trigger the release of pleasure hormones like dopamine, enhancing feelings of happiness.
  • The act of giving presents fosters social bonds and can strengthen relationships between friends and family.
  • Mindfulness practices often emphasize the importance of being 'present' in the moment for improved mental well-being.

Literature

  • In narrative writing, the present tense can create a sense of immediacy, drawing readers into the story.
  • Authors like Virginia Woolf have skillfully used present time to explore characters' thoughts and emotions in real-time.
  • Many poems utilize present tense to evoke immediacy and connection with the reader.

Translations

Translations of the word "present" in other languages:

🇵🇹 presente

🇮🇳 वर्तमान

🇩🇪 gegenwärtig

🇮🇩 saat ini

🇺🇦 теперішній

🇵🇱 obecny

🇯🇵 現在

🇫🇷 présent

🇪🇸 presente

🇹🇷 mevcut

🇰🇷 현재

🇸🇦 حاضر

🇨🇿 přítomný

🇸🇰 prítomný

🇨🇳 现在

🇸🇮 prisoten

🇮🇸 núverandi

🇰🇿 қазіргі

🇬🇪 აწმყო

🇦🇿 indiki

🇲🇽 presente

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #111, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.