recent
Describes something that happened, began, or existed a short time ago. It is used to talk about events or things that are fresh and close to the present moment.
Examples
3 of 5I watched a recent interview with my favorite actor on YouTube.
I watched a newly released interview with my favorite actor on YouTube.
The government has implemented several recent changes to the tax law.
The government has put into place several new changes to the tax law.
Have you seen any recent photos of her kids?
Have you seen any new or current photos of her kids?
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the 'Recent' folder on your computer or phone; it shows you the files you just finished working on.
Quick Quiz
The ______ floods have caused a lot of damage to the city.
Correct!
The correct answer is: recent
Examples
I watched a recent interview with my favorite actor on YouTube.
everydayI watched a newly released interview with my favorite actor on YouTube.
The government has implemented several recent changes to the tax law.
formalThe government has put into place several new changes to the tax law.
Have you seen any recent photos of her kids?
informalHave you seen any new or current photos of her kids?
Recent research indicates a strong link between diet and mental health.
academicCurrent research shows a strong connection between diet and mental health.
Please refer to the most recent version of the contract for the final terms.
businessPlease look at the latest version of the contract for the final terms.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
in recent years
during the last few years
until recently
up to a short time ago
most recent
the very last or newest one
Often Confused With
'Last' refers to the final item in a series or the one immediately before now, while 'recent' refers to anything in the near past.
'Late' means behind schedule or deceased, whereas 'recent' means having happened a short time ago.
Usage Notes
The word 'recent' is almost always used as an adjective before a noun. To describe an action that happened a short time ago, use the adverb 'recently' instead.
Common Mistakes
Learners often say 'I saw him recent' instead of the correct adverbial form 'I saw him recently'.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'Recent' folder on your computer or phone; it shows you the files you just finished working on.
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin word 'recens', which means fresh, young, or new.
Grammar Patterns
Quick Quiz
The ______ floods have caused a lot of damage to the city.
Correct!
The correct answer is: recent
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
complement
A2A thing that completes or brings to perfection something else. In grammar, it refers to a word or phrase that follows a verb and provides more information about the subject or object.
compound
A2Describes something that is made of two or more separate parts or elements joined together. It is often used to talk about words, sentences, or chemical substances that have multiple components.
conceive
A2To form an idea, plan, or concept in the mind. It is also the medical term used to describe when a woman becomes pregnant.
confer
A2To discuss something with other people in order to reach a decision or exchange ideas. It can also mean to officially give an honor, title, or degree to someone.
conform
A2To behave according to rules, standards, or what is expected by a group of people. It means to fit in or act in a way that matches others.
consecutive
A2Following one after another in a continuous series without any breaks. It describes things that happen in a logical order, like numbers (1, 2, 3) or days (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday).
consistency
A2Consistency is the quality of always acting or behaving in the same way. it also describes how thick or smooth a liquid or substance is.
disclude
B1Describing a state where someone or something is left out, omitted, or not allowed to participate in a group or activity. It refers to the condition of being kept apart from a whole or a set.
antiformous
B1Describes a shape or structure that is curved or folded upwards like an arch. It is most often used in geology and geometry to describe a convex surface.
interspect
B1Describing a person who is thoughtful and focused on their own internal thoughts and feelings. It refers to the act of looking inward to examine one's own emotions and motives rather than focusing on external things.
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