Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to express the concept of “lately”! Whether you need to discuss recent events in a formal or informal setting, we’ve got you covered. Throughout this guide, we will present numerous tips and examples to help you convey the notion of “lately” effectively. So let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions for “Lately”
If you’re in a more official or professional setting, it’s crucial to choose your words wisely. Here are some formal expressions to consider when talking about recent events:
1. Recently
The term “recently” is a versatile word that works well in formal conversations. It implies events or actions that have taken place in the near past. Here’s an example:
Manager: Have you completed the project, John?
John: Not yet, but I have recently made significant progress.
2. In recent times
When you want to express a slightly longer time frame, “in recent times” is an excellent option. It conveys the idea of events occurring over a broader span, but still in the near past. Consider this example:
Professor: Do you have any insights into this theory?
Student: Yes, in recent times, numerous researchers have provided valuable contributions to this topic.
Informal Ways to Say “Lately”
When engaging in casual conversations or speaking with friends, you can use more relaxed expressions to describe recent events. Here are a few colloquial phrases and words that will help you achieve a friendly tone:
1. These days
“These days” is a commonly used informal expression that refers to recent times. It’s perfect for discussing present trends or habits. Take a look at the example below:
Friend: How have you been, Sarah?
Sarah: Well, these days I’ve been trying to focus more on my fitness routine.
2. As of late
“As of late” is an informal phrase used to describe recent events or behaviors. It adds a touch of informality while maintaining a conversational tone. Consider this example:
Colleague: How has work been going, Mike?
Mike: As of late, I’ve been feeling more motivated and productive than ever before.
Combining Formal and Informal Expressions
It’s important to have a balanced approach when discussing recent events. Sometimes, using a mix of formal and informal expressions can make your conversations more interesting. Here are a couple of examples:
1. Of late
“Of late” is a slightly more formal variation of “as of late.” While it maintains a conversational tone, it can add a hint of sophistication to your speech. Here’s an example:
Teacher: What changes have you noticed in your study habits, Mary?
Mary: Of late, I’ve been implementing more effective strategies, such as creating detailed study schedules.
2. In the past few months
If you want to express a longer timeframe while still sounding informal, you can use “in the past few months.” This phrase allows you to discuss events or activities that occurred over a moderately extended period. Take a look at this example:
Sibling: What have you been up to, Alex?
Alex: Well, in the past few months, I’ve been exploring new hobbies and trying to broaden my horizons.
Conclusion
Now that you have a variety of expressions at your disposal, you can confidently discuss recent events in both formal and informal contexts. Remember to adapt your choice of words based on the situation and audience. Whether you opt for the formality of “recently” or the casualness of “these days,” your fluency will impress others. So go ahead, use these expressions, and inject your conversations with all the meaning and warmth that “lately” carries!
