by the present

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'by the present' can be used in written English.
It is most often used as a synonym for the phrase 'at this time', and it is usually used to express immediacy. For example, you could say, "By the present, we are still working on the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Both are preoccupied by the present.

The New Yorker

"The conference has been destroyed by the present Israeli government".

The New York Times

Today, I am fascinated by the present, by youth.

The Guardian - Film

This conclusion is validated by the present findings that i.c.v.

Nature

Her account was confirmed by the present government adviser.

The New York Times

The centre is the third design, and the second by the present architects.

The Guardian

The first clubhouse, overlooking the ocean, burned in 1922 and was replaced by the present one.

The New York Times

All these activities are discouraged and indeed ridiculed by the present Republican leadership.

The New York Times

Instead, they seem oddly stunned by the present, deseeded and without the pith of affect.

The Guardian - Books

Such is life with a young quarterback, with the future difficult to measure by the present.

The New York Times - Sports

Others, moved by the present economic upheaval, look for a new New Deal.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by the present" in academic or scientific writing, ensure the context clearly defines what "present" refers to, such as a specific study, analysis, or time frame. This prevents ambiguity and enhances clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "by the present" when a simple present tense verb would suffice. For example, instead of saying "The data is confirmed by the present study", it's often clearer to say "The data confirms this study".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by the present" functions primarily as an adverbial modifier, specifying the temporal context or perspective from which an action, condition, or observation is viewed. As Ludwig AI points out, it often introduces a sense of immediacy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

39%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by the present" is a versatile adverbial modifier that situates information within the current timeframe. As Ludwig AI explains, it is considered grammatically correct and is very commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. It's frequently found in scientific, news, and academic writing, signaling the current validity or relevance of information. When using "by the present", ensure clarity in defining the specific timeframe. Ludwig's examples confirm its broad applicability, making it a useful phrase for expressing immediacy and relevance in various writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the current time

Formal alternative that emphasizes the specific point in time being referenced.

in the present day

Highlights the ongoing nature of the present, implying a duration.

as of now

Emphasizes the immediacy of the current situation.

at this moment

Stresses the particular instant or point in time.

currently

A shorter, more direct adverb conveying the same sense of present time.

at present

A slightly more formal way of saying "currently".

in today's context

Highlights the modern relevance and current conditions.

as things stand

Focuses on the existing circumstances and how they influence the situation.

under the current circumstances

Emphasizes the existing conditions and their effect.

given the present situation

Highlights awareness of and reaction to current circumstances.

FAQs

How can I use "by the present" in a sentence?

You can use "by the present" to refer to something that is happening or being considered at the current time. For instance, "This conclusion is validated "by the present findings"" indicates that the current research supports the conclusion.

What phrases are similar in meaning to "by the present"?

Similar phrases include "at the current time", "in the present day", and "as of now". Each offers a slightly different nuance regarding the immediacy or duration of the present.

Is "by the present" appropriate for formal writing?

"By the present" can be used in formal writing, especially in academic or scientific contexts. However, consider whether a more concise option like "currently" or "at present" might be more suitable.

When should I avoid using the phrase "by the present"?

Avoid using "by the present" in situations where it adds unnecessary length or complexity to your writing. If a simpler phrasing, such as using the present tense, conveys the same meaning more directly, opt for the simpler option.