What is already? Pronunciation and usage in English

Let's break down how to use "already" effectively in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word! Here's a breakdown of its common uses, with examples:

1. To Indicate Something Has Happened Before Now:

This is the most common use of "already." It simply means that something has taken place before the current time.

• Example: "I've already eaten breakfast." (You ate before now.)
• Example: "She's already finished her homework." (She completed it before now.)
• Example: "He's already left for the airport." (He departed before now.)

2. To Express Surprise or a Negative Reaction (Often with "not"):

When used with "not," "already" often conveys surprise, disappointment, or a feeling that something is too early.

• Example: "You've finished the report? Already?" (Expressing surprise that it's done so quickly.)
• Example: "The rain has stopped? Already?" (Implies surprise that the rain stopped so soon.)
• Example: "He's won the lottery? Already?!" (A stronger expression of surprise and disbelief.)

3. To Indicate a Previous Action (Often with a Verb):

"Already" can be placed before a verb to emphasize that something has been done before.

• Example: "I already know the answer." (Emphasis on the fact that you know it before they asked.)
• Example: "They already booked the tickets." (They booked them before now - important for timing.)
• Example: "We already discussed this." (It was discussed before this conversation.)

4. "Already" as an Adverb of Time (Less Common, but Important):

In certain contexts, it can simply modify a clause, describing when something happened.

• Example: "I already understand how it works." (This refers to a point in the past – within the current timeframe.)
• Example: "He's already been there." (He visited there before now.)

Important Notes & Common Mistakes:

• Placement: "Already" generally comes before the verb it modifies. However, it can sometimes be placed in the middle of a clause, especially when emphasizing the previous action.

• Contrast with "Yet": "Already" is used for past actions that are finished. "Yet" is used for ongoing or future actions, especially in questions about whether something has happened by now.

  • "Have you finished your work yet?" (Asking if it's done by now)
  • "I've already finished my work." (It's done completed)

• Don't Overuse It: While "already" is useful, avoid using it excessively. Sometimes, a simple sentence is clearer.

Here’s a table summarizing the uses:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

• What kind of context are you trying to use "already" in? (e.g., writing an email, speaking in a conversation, etc.)
• Can you give me an example sentence you’re struggling with?