Presence
'prezəns
Definitions
3 meaningsThe state of being in a particular place at a particular time.
'prezəns
The state of being present; existence in a place.
Her presence calmed the nervous crowd.
💡 Simply: It's like when you're physically there. Imagine going to a party; your presence means you're at the party!
👶 For kids: Being there! Like when you are at school or at a friend's house.
More Examples
The police were requested at the crime scene to establish their presence.
How It's Used
"The soldier's presence was requested at the front."
"Her presence at the event was highly anticipated."
A person or thing that is in a particular place.
'prezəns
The presence of the painting changed the atmosphere.
💡 Simply: It's like when you can feel someone or something is there, even if you can't see them. Think about feeling like a friend is supporting you, even if they're not around.
👶 For kids: It's like a person or a thing is there. It's like when you feel your pet in the same room with you.
More Examples
The palpable presence of evil filled the room.
How It's Used
"The chilling presence of the ghost was felt throughout the house."
"The presence of mind she showed during the crisis was admirable."
The impression or effect made by a person.
'prezəns
His imposing presence intimidated the witnesses.
💡 Simply: It's the way a person acts and makes people feel. For example, a teacher's classroom presence can be stern or friendly.
👶 For kids: The way someone makes other people feel when they're around. Is the person fun to be with or scary?
More Examples
She had a warm and friendly presence that put everyone at ease.
How It's Used
"She had a commanding presence when she entered the room."
"His online presence is very professional."
Synonyms
Attendance
Being
Existence
Occupation
Entity
Figure
Manifestation
Aura
Bearing
Carriage
Demeanor
Idioms & expressions
presence of mind
The ability to think clearly and act quickly in a difficult or dangerous situation.
"She showed remarkable presence of mind during the emergency."
make one's presence known
To make someone aware of your being somewhere or what you're doing.
"The new manager made his presence known by instituting several changes."
From Old French *presence*, from Latin *praesentia*, from *praesens* (present), the present participle of *praeesse* (to be present).
The word 'presence' has been used for centuries, evolving from describing being physically present to also reflecting influence or effect.
Memory tip
Think of a 'present' given at a birthday, signifying someone's presence.