presently

Universal Words adverb 1 (especially AmE) at the time you are speaking or writing; now SYNCURRENTLY: The crime is presently being investigated by the police. * These are the courses presently available. HELPNOTE In this meaning presently usually comes before the verb, adjective or noun that it refers to. 2 (written) used to show that sth happened after a short time: Presently, the door opened again and three men stepped out. HELPNOTE In this meaning presently usually comes at the beginning of a sentence. 3 used to show that sth will happen soon SYNSHORTLY: She'll be here presently. HELPNOTE In this meaning presently usually comes at the end of a sentence. ______________________________ BRITISH/AMERICAN presently In both BrE and AmE, presently can mean 'soon' or 'after a short time': I'll be with you presently. * Presently, I heard her leave the house. This use is slightly old-fashioned. In AmE the usual meaning of presently is 'at the present time' or 'now': She is presently living in Milan. * There is presently no cure for the disease. This use is becoming more accepted in BrE, but at present or currently are usually used. ______________________________