B1adjective1K

Current

UK /["/ˈkʌrənt/"]/US /["/ˈkɜːrənt/"]/

Definition

happening now; of the present time

In simple words: The present time or now.

Examples

  • The necklace would be worth over $5 000 at **current prices**.
  • the **current situation**
  • Oil prices are expected to remain at **current levels**.
  • What's the budget for **the current year**?
  • Under the **current system**, the entire process takes about two weeks.
  • your current employer
  • Our current financial situation is not good.
  • What are the current unemployment figures?
  • words that are no longer current

Usage notes

Use 'current' when talking about something happening now. Avoid using it for future or past events. It's formal enough for writing but can also be used in conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of a 'current' like a river flow, always moving in the present.

Collocations

  • current events
  • current situation
  • current climate
  • current trends

Synonyms

  • present
  • ongoing
  • existing
  • contemporary

Antonyms

  • past
  • future

Common mistakes

  • 'Current' is sometimes confused with 'currency', which means money.
  • Learners may use 'current' incorrectly to describe past events.
  • Mixing up 'current' with 'curriculum' which refers to a course of study.