presence

The fact that someone or something is in a particular place.

• Your presence makes me happy.
• They noticed the presence of a stranger.
• His presence at dinner was unexpected.

How to use it: presence of someone/something (The test confirmed the presence of water.); presence at something (Her presence at the meeting surprised us.)

Opposites: absence

Common phrases: presence of someone, someone’s presence, confirm someone’s presence, presence of something

The area near someone, where they can see or hear what happens.

• He never swears in my presence.
• She entered the king’s presence quietly.
• They discussed the matter in the teacher’s presence.

How to use it: in someone’s presence (Please do not argue in the children’s presence.)

Common phrases: in someone’s presence, enter someone’s presence, leave someone’s presence