present tense
現在時
Pres·ent a.
1. Being at hand, within reach or call, within certain contemplated limits; -- opposed to absent.
These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. --John xiv. 25.
2. Now existing, or in process; begun but not ended; now in view, or under consideration; being at this time; not past or future; as, the present session of Congress; the present state of affairs; the present instance.
I'll bring thee to the present business --Shak.
3. Not delayed; immediate; instant; coincident. “A present recompense.” “A present pardon.”
An ambassador . . . desires a present audience. --Massinger.
4. Ready; quick in emergency; as a present wit. [R.]
5. Favorably attentive; propitious. [Archaic]
To find a god so present to my prayer. --Dryden.
Present tense Gram., the tense or form of a verb which expresses action or being in the present time; as, I am writing, I write, or I do write.
present tense
n : a verb tense that expresses actions or states at the time of
speaking [syn: present]