Présent
/pʁe.zɑ̃/
In French, "I am present" is expressed as Présent.
The word Présent is the standard response used during a roll call in formal settings, such as a meeting or a classroom.
Which one should you use?
While the word Ici means "here", it is not the standard way to answer a roll call. Présent is the specific term used for being present in an official capacity.
How does it change in a sentence?
If the person responding is female, the word changes to Présente to agree with the gender. However, in many rapid roll-call contexts, the masculine form Présent is often used as a generic response.
How do you pronounce it?
/pʁe.zɑ̃/
Did you know?
- In French, the word présent can also be used as a noun meaning 'gift', creating a pun where someone is described as a 'présent' during a roll call.
- While ici means 'here', using présent to say 'I am here' at a casual party can sound oddly stiff or overly formal to native speakers.
- To show respect during a roll call, students in traditional settings may append the teacher's title, responding with Présent, Monsieur or Présente, Madame.
Examples in context
- Il a dit « présent » quand on l'a appelé.He said "present" when he was called.
Example conversation
A teacher is calling the roll in a classroom.
- EmmaHugo ?Hugo?
- HugoPrésent !Present!
- EmmaEt Emma ?And Emma?
- HugoElle n'est pas là.She is not here.
Sources
- Pronunciation from the Wiktionary entry présent.
