presently

Everyday

1. Soon; in a short time (I'll be with you presently). tree →
2. (mainly US and formal) Now; at the moment (she is presently living in Toronto). tree →

In the lessons

In stories and older books, «presently» often means «soon» or «after a little while». In news and formal writing it often means «now». Phrases: «presently available», «will be here presently».

Examples

• The doctor will see you presently. tree →
• Presently the rain stopped and the sun came out. tree →
• She is presently in Year 5. tree →
• The museum is presently closed for repairs. tree →
• Wait here; I'll be back presently. tree →
• Two hundred pupils are presently at the school. tree →
• Presently he heard steps coming upstairs. tree →

Note

Two meanings: UK and older books mostly «soon»; US and formal writing often «now». Check the sentence to decide. Not the same as «present» (a gift or now) or «presentation».

In Jewish tradition

Here it means at once, right away. A fool shows his anger immediately.

Interpretation. Tradition teaches that a wise person controls anger and hides insult.

Examples

• A fool's vexation is presently known; but a prudent man concealeth shame. (Writings PRO.12.16, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Two meanings: UK and older books mostly «soon»; US and formal writing often «now». Check the sentence to decide. Not the same as «present» (a gift or now) or «presentation».

Early Modern English

Meaning

At once; straight away; right then. tree →

Then and now

Today it means soon or in a short time; the old sense is "at once", and the sentences use this older sense.

Examples

• Presently he heard steps coming upstairs. (More English Fairy Tales) tree →
• Presently his brothers came that way. (Russian Fairy Tales: A Choice Collection of Muscovite Folk-lore) tree →
• Presently in rushes the irritated bridegroom. (Russian Fairy Tales: A Choice Collection of Muscovite Folk-lore) tree →

Note

Today: at once, immediately.