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recently
/ˈriːsəntli/
not long ago
I recently visited my grandparents.
I visited my grandparents a short time ago.
neutral
not long ago; during a period of time that is close to the present.
She recently started a new job.
She began a new job a short time ago.
The company recently launched a new product.
The company introduced a new product not long ago.
Used to describe actions or events that happened in the near past. Often used with the present perfect tense in English.
Collocations
recently discoveredfound or learned about something new not long agorecently publishedmade public or available recentlyrecently marriedhaving gotten married not long ago
Synonyms
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Present Perfect Tense with 'Recently'
In British English, 'recently' is commonly used with the present perfect tense (e.g., 'I have recently finished my homework.'). In American English, the simple past tense is also widely accepted (e.g., 'I recently finished my homework.').
Gold Rule
Time Frame for 'Recently'
'Recently' typically refers to a time frame within the last few weeks or months, depending on context. It is not used for distant past events.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'recent' (meaning 'fresh or new') + '-ly' (adverbial suffix), ultimately from Latin 'recens' (fresh, new).
Usage Notes
Often used with the present perfect tense (e.g., 'I have recently read that book.'). In American English, 'recently' can also be used with the simple past tense (e.g., 'I recently visited the museum.').
Word Breakdown
recent
fresh or new
root-ly
adverbial suffix
suffixEnglish Dictionary