Definition of Present (meaning 1 of 4 — noun)
Quick Meaning of Present
Something you give to someone as a gift for a special occasion.
Detailed Definition of Present
A gift given to show affection, celebration, or appreciation.
How to Pronounce Present
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress falls on the first syllable: PREZ-ent, not prez-ENT.
Watch out: Pronouncing with stress on second syllable like the verb form.
Other Meanings of Present
“Present” has 4 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 3:
#2 Present as a noun
The time that is happening right now, not the past or future.
at present
#3 Present as a verb
To show or give something officially to a group of people.
present information
#4 Present as an adjective
Existing or happening now; here or there right now.
present day
Origin and Etymology of Present
From Latin praesentia, past participle of praesens (being before).
How to Use Present in a Sentence
Each example shows “present” in the meaning “Something you give to someone as a gift…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“She gave me a present for my birthday.”
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“The children opened their Christmas presents with excitement.”
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“He brought an elegant present to the wedding ceremony.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Present
Common Synonyms for Present
Smart Synonyms for Present — When to Use Each
- gift
- most common synonym for something given
- offering
- more formal when given as tribute or respect
Common Collocations with Present
These phrases pair with “present” in everyday English:
- give a present
- receive a present
- birthday present
Common Mistakes When Using Present
Even fluent speakers slip up with “present”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I bought three presents for they.
- ✓ Correct: I bought three presents for them.
- Why: Pronoun should be object form (them not they) after preposition for.
- ✗ Wrong: She wrap the present in beautiful paper.
- ✓ Correct: She wrapped the present in beautiful paper.
- Why: Past tense with simple subject needs -ed ending; wrap→wrapped not wrap.
Words Confused With Present
- Present vs Present (verb): Different pronunciation and meaning; verb has stress on second syllable
Other Forms of Present
- Noun: present
Frequently Asked Questions About Present
What is the meaning of "Present"?
Something you give to someone as a gift for a special occasion.
How do you pronounce "Present"?
The IPA is /ˈprɛzənt/. Stress falls on the first syllable: PREZ-ent, not prez-ENT.
What part of speech is "Present"?
"Present" is a noun at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Present"?
Common synonyms include gift, offering, token.
How do you use "Present" in a sentence?
For example: "She gave me a present for my birthday."