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die Gegenwart

the present

Die Zeit, die gerade jetzt ist und in der man lebt.

Definition & meaning

The word "die Gegenwart" refers to the current time, the period between the past and the future. It describes the state of existing or occurring now.

In a slightly more formal or philosophical context, it can also refer to the "presence" of a person or object in a specific place, although for this sense, the word "Anwesenheit" is more commonly used.

Grammar & Word origin

"Die Gegenwart" is a feminine noun.

The word is derived from the German verb "gegenwärtig sein" (to be present/to be current). It is composed of the prefix "gegen-" (against/opposite) and "Wart" (from the verb "warten", meaning to wait or to watch). Historically, it implies something that is "standing opposite" or "waiting in front of" someone, denoting that which is immediately accessible or currently happening.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • das Jetzt
  • die Heutzeit
  • die Zeitumstände (referring to current circumstances)

Antonyms:

  • die Vergangenheit (the past)
  • die Zukunft (the future)

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Examples

Wir konzentrieren uns voll auf die Gegenwart.other

We are fully concentrating on the present.

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