ENGLISH
REFERENCE

at present

idiom
Meaning

at the current time. You use this to talk about what is happening right now, especially when the situation might change later.


Examples
SIMPLE

At present, the office is closed for lunch.

CONTEXTUAL

We are not looking for new staff at present, but we will keep your resume on file.

COMPLEX

The political situation remains unstable at present, though diplomats hope that ongoing negotiations will lead to a peaceful resolution by the end of the month.

Last updated April 22, 2026