Presently

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Presently" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is happening at the current time or moment. Example: "Presently, we are reviewing the proposals submitted for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Detectives are presently following 400 lines of inquiry, while the BBC has launched an inquiry into the culture and practices at the corporation in the era of Savile's alleged sexual abuse.

The Guardian

In any country where de facto immunity presently exists and can be withdrawn, it should be lifted We must pursue legal and political redress for what has been done to us.

The Guardian - Tech

With 3.7 million Australians presently at risk, the time is now to be realistic that a broader context of alcoholism exists.

The Guardian - Opinion

Only households in the Midlands presently have access to these.

The Guardian - Money

That game seems like it happened in a different world, given the changes in results and on the field during the past 5-6 monthatthavehave propelled the team to where it presently stands.

The Guardian - Sport

Behind them, the peleton continue to cruise along, led presently by BMC, Garmin-Sharp and Saxo-Tinkoff.

The Guardian - Sport

As far as we presently know there's nothing 4S-specific about Siri (although possibly the voice recognition depends on the A5 chip).

The Guardian - Tech

Ministers found it difficult to accept that the actions of a sperm donor are comparable to the actions presently defined as those of fatherhood.

The Guardian

But not, it seems, in Britain, where loud questions about the legitimacy of an eventual Labour government are presently being asked on the basis that the party that comes second in an election should not be the one that gets to call the shots.

The Guardian

The SDLP, like Labour in the republic and New Labour in Britain, is presently affiliated to the Socialist International.

The Guardian

Have you ever thought about changing your vocation?" BS: "Presently, I think policing is still satisfactory, I am satisfied with my job".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Presently" to indicate actions or states that are occurring at the current time, especially in formal writing. It provides a slightly more sophisticated alternative to "now" or "currently".

Common error

Avoid using "Presently" too frequently in casual conversation or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or stilted in such situations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "now" or "currently" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "Presently" functions to specify the timing of an action or state, indicating that it is happening now or will happen soon. Ludwig's examples confirm its use in formal contexts to denote the current state of affairs.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

28%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Presently" is a versatile adverb primarily used to denote actions or states occurring at the current time, though it can also indicate near future events. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use in formal contexts, especially in news, business, and scientific writing. While highly appropriate in these settings, its use should be moderated in more informal communication to avoid sounding overly formal. Alternatives like "currently", "at present", and "now" offer simpler options for casual use. Considering its purpose, function, and register ensures effective and contextually appropriate usage of the word "Presently".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Currently

Emphasizes the ongoing nature of an action or state.

At present

More formal and emphasizes the current moment.

Now

Direct and immediate in its indication of time.

In the meantime

Highlights an interim period.

For the time being

Indicates a temporary situation.

Shortly

Suggests something will happen soon.

Soon

Indicates an event will happen in the near future.

In due course

Implies something will happen at the appropriate time.

Before long

Emphasizes the proximity of a future event.

In the short term

Focuses on the immediate future.

FAQs

How can I use "Presently" in a sentence?

"Presently" can be used to indicate something happening at the current time. For example, "Presently, we are reviewing the proposals." It can also mean "soon" or "shortly."

What words can I substitute for "Presently"?

Alternatives to "Presently" include "currently", "at present", or "now", depending on the context.

Is it better to use "Presently" or "Currently"?

Both "Presently" and "currently" are correct, but "Presently" can sound more formal. Choose the word that best fits the tone of your writing.

Can "Presently" mean "soon" or "in the future"?

Yes, "Presently" can also mean "soon" or "in the near future", although this usage is less common than its meaning of "at the present time."