Presently: meaning, definitions and examples

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presently

 

[ˈprɛz(ə)ntli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in the current moment

at the present time; now

Synonyms

at the moment, currently, now.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
presently

Used in formal writing or speech to indicate something happening soon or in the near future, as well as to indicate the current moment.

  • The manager will presently join the meeting
  • Presently, the results are being analyzed
currently

Used to indicate something happening at the present time, often in formal writing or reports.

  • The company is currently hiring new employees
  • Currently, we are working on the project
now

Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to stress the immediacy of an action or situation.

  • Please do it now
  • I need your help now
at the moment

Used in everyday conversation to emphasize the current time or situation.

  • I'm busy at the moment
  • The shop is closed at the moment

Examples of usage

  • She is presently studying for her exams.
  • The meeting is presently taking place in the conference room.
Context #2 | Adverb

coming soon or in the near future

in a little while; soon

Synonyms

before long, shortly, soon.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
presently

Used to describe something that is happening right now or will happen in the immediate future. It is often used in formal or literary contexts.

  • The manager will be with you presently.
  • Presently, the situation seems to be under control.
shortly

Implies something will happen soon, but within a short amount of time. It's commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • The CEO will address the company shortly.
  • Our flight will depart shortly.
soon

A general term indicating that something will happen in the near future. It is widely used in both formal and informal situations.

  • I'll see you soon.
  • They should arrive soon.
before long

Conveys an event that will occur in the near future but not immediately. This phrase tends to have a casual tone.

  • They should be here before long.
  • Before long, we will know the results of the test.

Examples of usage

  • The train will be arriving presently.
  • I will be with you presently.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin word 'praesens', meaning 'being at hand' or 'present'.
  • In Middle English, it was used to describe something happening in the current time period.
  • The original meaning connected closely with the idea of presence, denoting things that are close or immediate.

Usage in Literature

  • Many classic authors, like Jane Austen, used the term in their writings, often to denote the immediacy of action or thought.
  • In contemporary texts, it reflects a casual tone indicating what is happening currently, often in dialogues.
  • The usage of 'presently' can vary between formal writing and everyday conversation, showing different levels of urgency or immediacy.

Pop Culture

  • In popular TV shows and movies, characters often say 'presently' to emphasize what they are doing at that exact moment.
  • Songs and lyrics sometimes include the word to express feelings tied to the present day or moment.
  • The term has appeared in various titles, conveying themes of current experiences or timelines.

Psychology

  • The concept of being 'present' is linked to mindfulness, a practice focused on living in the moment.
  • Studies show that being present can enhance emotional regulation and well-being.
  • People often feel happier when they engage with their current experiences instead of being fixated on the past or future.

Communication

  • In formal contexts, 'presently' may be used as a synonym for 'currently', giving it a more polished tone.
  • Using this word can reflect sophistication in speech or writing, indicating awareness of time and context.
  • Some speakers might confuse 'presently' with 'eventually', showcasing how precise language impacts understanding.

Translations

Translations of the word "presently" in other languages:

🇵🇹 atualmente

🇮🇳 वर्तमान में

🇩🇪 derzeit

🇮🇩 saat ini

🇺🇦 наразі

🇵🇱 obecnie

🇯🇵 現在

🇫🇷 actuellement

🇪🇸 actualmente

🇹🇷 şu anda

🇰🇷 현재

🇸🇦 حاليا

🇨🇿 nyní

🇸🇰 v súčasnosti

🇨🇳 目前

🇸🇮 trenutno

🇮🇸 núna

🇰🇿 қазіргі уақытта

🇬🇪 ამჟამად

🇦🇿 hal-hazırda

🇲🇽 actualmente

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,800, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.