current

word

/ˈkɑɹənt/
KUR-uhnt
/kˈʌɹənt/
KUH-ruhnt

Definition

“Current” most commonly means happening now or existing at the present time. It can also mean the movement of water, air, or electricity in a particular direction.

Usage & Nuances

As an adjective, “current” is common in formal and everyday English: “current situation,” “current price,” “current job.” As a noun, it is used for water and electricity: “ocean current,” “electric current.” Don’t confuse it with “actual,” which means real, not present.

Example Sentences

I tried to swim back, but the current kept pulling me away from shore.

natural

The current in this river is very strong.

basic

My current phone is three years old.

basic

Be careful — the wire has an electric current.

basic

I'm happy in my current job, but I still want to learn new skills.

natural

Given the current traffic, we should leave a little earlier.

natural