Definition

1. Adverb:
   • At the present time; now: Indicates something happening or existing at the current moment.
   • In a short time; soon: Indicates that something will happen after a short period from the present moment.

Usage Examples

• Adverb (meaning: now):
  • The manager is presently unavailable; please call back later.
  • She is presently working on a new research project.
• Adverb (meaning: soon):
  • I will be with you presently; just let me finish this email.
  • The results will be announced presently.

Advanced Usage

• "Presently" vs. "Currently": While both can mean "now," "presently" can be ambiguous as it also means "soon." In formal writing, "currently" is often preferred for clarity when meaning "at the present time."
  • The company is currently (or presently) reviewing all applications.
• Position in a sentence: "Presently" is often placed before the main verb or at the beginning/end of a clause.
  • He is presently residing abroad.
  • Presently, a solution was found.
  • The guests will arrive presently.

Variants and Related Words

• Present (adj): Existing or occurring now.
  • What is your present address?
• Presence (n): The state of being in a particular place.
  • Your presence is required at the meeting.

Synonyms

• Currently, now, at present (for the meaning "now").
• Shortly, soon, before long, in a little while (for the meaning "soon").

Related Phrases

• For the present: For now; temporarily.
  • This solution will work for the present.
• At present: At the current time.
  • At present, we have no further information.

Notes on Usage

• The dual meaning of "presently" (both "now" and "soon") can sometimes cause confusion. The intended meaning is usually clear from the context (e.g., verb tense).
  • Present tense context suggests "now": She is presently on leave.
  • Future tense context suggests "soon": She will return presently.
• In some regional dialects, particularly Scottish English, "presently" almost exclusively means "at the present time."

Adverb

1. at this time or period; now
   • he is presently our ambassador to the United Nations
   • currently they live in Connecticut
2. in the near future
   • the doctor will soon be here
   • the book will appear shortly
   • she will arrive presently
   • we should have news before long