present

The word "present" has a few different meanings. Notice the pronunciation of this word. The accent is on the first syllable: prez ent.

A present is a gift:

• Children receive a lot of presents on Christmas Day.
• Hubert gave his wife a present for her birthday.
• Look at all the presents!

presents

The word "present" can also be used as an adjective or as a noun when referring to things that are happening now or every day:

• At the present time, you can get a good deal on a house because rates are low.
• They have no plans for the future at present.
• It’s important to know how to use the present tense in English.
• It’s good to live in the present, but you also have to think about and plan for the future.
• This present problem must be addressed immediately.
• Who is your present English teacher?
• Where do you live at present?
• What is your present address?

Sometimes this word is used when a person is available or in person so that you can talk face to face:

• When the teacher called the students’ names, they answered with the words "here" or "present."
• Catherine is not present in school today.
• Dr. Williams is not present today. He’ll be in his office tomorrow.

Note: When the accent is on the second syllable,

pre zent

it means to give or show. Click here to learn how "present" might be used as a verb.

Click here to learn more words.

December 17, 2013