Word
of late
Adverb of time
Definition
adv. used to describe things that have happened recently or in the last few weeks.
adv. In or during the recent past. Typically occurs at the beginning or end of a clause.
Examples
“I have been very busy of late.”
“There have been several updates to the software of late, making the system much faster.”
“The CEO's public statements have, of late, become increasingly cautious as the economic outlook for the next fiscal year remains uncertain.”
Examples
simple
“I have been very busy of late.”
contextual
“There have been several updates to the software of late, making the system much faster.”
complex
“The CEO's public statements have, of late, become increasingly cautious as the economic outlook for the next fiscal year remains uncertain.”
Usage
Commonly used with the present perfect tense to bridge the past and the present.
Pitfall
I met him of late
I have seen him of late
This phrase describes a period leading up to now rather than a single point in time, so it usually pairs with the present perfect, not the simple past.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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