present
A present is an object that you give to someone, typically on a special occasion or to show your gratitude. It is usually something that is given for free to make the recipient feel happy or appreciated.
Examples
3 of 5I bought a birthday present for my sister yesterday.
I bought a birthday gift for my sister yesterday.
Please accept this small present as a token of our gratitude.
Please accept this small gift as a sign of our thanks.
Look at this cool present I got from my friend!
Look at this great gift I received from my friend!
Word Family
Memory Tip
A 'present' is 'presently' in your hand because someone wants to see you smile.
Quick Quiz
I received a beautiful _______ for my birthday from my parents.
Correct!
The correct answer is: present
Examples
I bought a birthday present for my sister yesterday.
everydayI bought a birthday gift for my sister yesterday.
Please accept this small present as a token of our gratitude.
formalPlease accept this small gift as a sign of our thanks.
Look at this cool present I got from my friend!
informalLook at this great gift I received from my friend!
The study explores the social significance of giving a present within a community.
academicThe research looks at the social importance of giving a gift in a group.
The company sent a holiday present to all its major clients.
businessThe firm sent a holiday gift to all its main customers.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
at present
currently or right now
birthday present
a gift for a birthday
Christmas present
a gift for Christmas
Often Confused With
'Present' is often used for personal items between friends/family, while 'gift' can be more formal or describe a natural talent.
'Presence' is the state of being in a place, while 'present' is the object being given.
Usage Notes
When used as a noun meaning 'gift', the stress is on the first syllable: PRE-sent. It is a countable noun.
Common Mistakes
Learners often stress the second syllable (pre-SENT), which is the verb form meaning to show or give a speech.
Memory Tip
A 'present' is 'presently' in your hand because someone wants to see you smile.
Word Origin
From the Old French word 'present', referring to something brought before someone as a gift.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many English-speaking cultures, it is common to wrap presents in colorful paper and include a small card.
Quick Quiz
I received a beautiful _______ for my birthday from my parents.
Correct!
The correct answer is: present
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
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