In modern days, the phrase is used in the present tense. It means "in the current era" or "nowadays." Key vocabulary: modern. English ['mɒdn] definition: adj. modern, contemporary; modern-style, modernist; modernized, modern-styled; trendy, fashionable. n. modern person; modernist artist; someone who advocates modern styles, promotes modern values. [Plural: moderns; comparative: more modern; superlative: most modern]. Phrase: Tate Modern, the modern art museum; Tate Modern art gallery; Tate Modern museum. Word distinction: modern, contemporary, current, recent, present, up-to-date. These adjectives all mean "modern" or "contemporary." 1. Modern refers to the modern or recent era, with a variable length of time; it can also mean new or fashionable. 2. Contemporary only refers to the current era, not involving any past eras, but can indicate that different people or things exist in the same era. 3. Current refers to what is currently existing and happening. 4. Recent suggests newness, with the length of time determined by the noun it modifies. 5. Present is the most forceful of these words, indicating something that is currently happening or in effect. 6. Up-to-date is generally used informally and means very modern, reflecting the latest developments.
