Present Synonym Guide: Definition and Examples

Synonyms are words with the same meaning as another. They allow you to avoid continually saying the same term. Can you think of any synonyms for “present”?

Sometimes the first term that comes to mind may not be the finest; therefore, a guide might help you locate a suitable alternative. 

Here is a list of present synonyms, their root words, and key examples. This guide will enhance your grammar and word choice whenever you need to use the word present verbally or in writing.

What Does Present Mean?

Present means existing or taking place at this very moment. Present also means someone or anything that is at a particular location.

In another vein, present could mean to give someone a gift or formally give away something. E.g., I present the global choice award for the best-dressed category. 

Sentence examples of present

• Can we please leave the past and look at the present challenge? 
• Hand over the present.
• She will view the present situation and give feedback once she arrives.

Present Synonym: Exploring Words with Similar Meanings

Current

Current is an excellent synonym of present. Current indicates that something is occurring, being used, or being performed at present. The term ‘current’ means ‘anticipated to occur within a year or less.’

Current denotes “presently in effect” in the mid-15c. It meant “prevalent, generally reported or known” in the 1560s and “established by common consent” in the 1590s. 

Examples of sentences with current

• Mary is related to my current partner. 
• The current state of affairs is nothing to write home about. 
•  Does your current income meet your needs? 

Contemporary

Contemporary refers to ‘occurring, being, residing, or coming into existence all throughout the same span of time.’

People and objects from the same era are said to be contemporary with one another. Things that are happening now or just lately can also be considered contemporary.

It was first recorded in the 1630s and meant “occurring, living, or existing at the same time, and belonging to the same age or period.” It stems from Medieval Latin contemporarius. 

Examples of sentences with contemporary

• Contemporary artists were not selected to play for his 100th birthday ceremony.
• How unique is contemporary poetry? 
• Contemporary artworks are a present beauty to behold.

Nowadays

Nowadays can serve as a great alternative to present. Nowadays is short for “at the present time,” in contrast to “the days of old” or “the olden days.” The term ‘nowadays’ refers to the present period or something occurring at the present moment.

Nou adayes was contracted from Middle English in the late 14c and meant “in these times, at the present.”

Examples of sentences with nowadays

• Nowadays, women are present and more vocal in politics.
• In the past, Kidnapping wasn’t a thing, unlike nowadays.
• Nowadays, everybody has an opinion; even fools are now advisors.

To Wrap Up

Present is one of many synonyms to say that something is happening now or something is currently occurring. Antonyms and synonyms can be used in various ways to improve the readability of a piece of writing. Make each grammar day count by utilizing a thesaurus or dictionary to build your vocabulary.