recently

The word “recently” means a short time ago, or in the near past. In plain terms, not long ago; lately.

“Recently” is pronounced REE-suhnt-lee (/ˈɹi.sənt.li/ in IPA).

Here is “recently” used in a sentence: “I recently moved to a new apartment.”

Words with a similar meaning to “recently” include as of late, freshly, just now, just then, late and lately.

The opposite of “recently” — its antonyms — are long ago, long since, oldly and soon.

“Recently” is an adverb.

“Recently” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

Both point to the near past, and they often overlap. 'Recently' usually marks a single, finished event — 'she recently moved.' 'Lately' tends to describe an ongoing situation or repeated pattern up to now — 'I've been tired lately.' 'Recently' suits completed actions, while 'lately' fits continuing ones.

There's no exact single opposite, but 'long ago,' 'formerly,' and 'in the distant past' express the reverse idea — something that happened far back in time rather than a short while ago. 'A long time ago' is the most natural everyday phrase people reach for.

'They recently opened a new branch downtown' places the opening a short time before now. It answers 'when?' with a vague but near timeframe: 'I saw him recently,' or 'Prices have risen recently.' It signals the event is fresh without giving an exact date.