Lately

Lately is an English adverb that refers to a period of time not long before the present. It is used to describe actions, events, or states that have occurred recently or have continued into the current moment.

Etymology: Lately is derived from late, with the suffix -ly, and appears in Middle English before becoming common in Modern English. The sense evolved to denote recently or in the near past; the form is attested in English from the 14th century onward.

Usage: Lately is most often used with perfect tenses, particularly the present perfect and present perfect continuous, to express ongoing relevance or recent change. Examples: "I have been busy lately." "Have you spoken to her lately?" In formal writing, "recently" is a common, sometimes more neutral alternative; "in recent times" or "in recent weeks" can add precision.

Notes: Lately tends to convey a conversational tone and may be less suitable for very distant past references. It is widely used in both American and British English. Related terms include recently, in recent times, and of late; distinctions often hinge on formality and emphasis on current relevance.