Langimage
English

presently

|pres-ent-ly|

B2

/ˈprɛzəntli/

(present)

current or gift

Base FormPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleAdjectiveAdjectiveAdjective
presentpresentspresentspresentedpresentedpresentingpresentablepresentedbadly-presented
Etymology
Etymology Information

'presently' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'presently,' where 'present' meant 'at hand' and '-ly' was an adverbial suffix.

Historical Evolution

'presently' changed from the Middle English word 'presently' and has largely retained its form and meaning in modern English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'immediately' or 'at once,' but over time it evolved to also mean 'currently' or 'at the present time.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

at the current time; now.

She is presently working on a new project.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adverb 2

in a short while; soon.

The manager will be with you presently.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39