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I've heard that every native students say "Here" when the teacher calls their names to see if they are there attending the class.

I recall in an English class in my country "Present" was used instead of "Here". That was started by a student and there's no instruction from the teacher. So I'm wondering.. How does it sound like to native speakers? Is it also commonly used in English speaking countries?

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    It can depend on how formal the class is. I remember students using any collection of words including "here", "present", "yeah", "not here" (when they were being silly or anti-establishment)... etc.
    – Catija
    Commented Feb 16, 2015 at 19:41
  • Here is used as a noun, adjective, or adverb. Present is used as a noun, adjective, or verb. If you are going to say only, "Present." without putting it in a sentence, like, "I am present.", and it is accepted by the teacher, then using "Here." without putting it in a sentence, like, "I am here." should be accepted too. Present : being in attendance : being in one place and not elsewhere--Webster's. Here.: in this place : at this location--Webster's. I am in attendance. I am at this location. Both tell the teacher WHERE you are at. After all, why is she asking?
    – Arch Denton
    Commented Sep 12, 2016 at 12:35

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I've heard both used. Neither would be surprising. I think "here" is used more often because it is shorter. "Yeah", "yup", and "yo" are also common in more informal settings.

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"Present" is the more formal option.

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