# of late

CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/of-late
Updated: 2026-07-28

## Definition

used to describe things that have happened recently or in the last few weeks.

For teachers: 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I met him of late" but "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.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used with the present perfect tense to bridge the past and the present.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.