A1adverb 1K

Ago

🇬🇧 UK /["/əˈɡəʊ/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/əˈɡəʊ/"]/

Meaning of Ago

used in expressions of time with the simple past tense to show how far in the past something happened

In simple words: in the past; before now

Ago in a sentence

• two weeks/months/years ago
• The letter came a few days ago.
• She was here just a minute ago.
• a short/long time ago
• How long ago did you buy it?
• It was on TV not (so) long ago.
• Scientists think there was water on Mars **a long time ago**.
• He stopped working some time ago *(= quite a long time ago)*.
• They're getting married? It's not that long ago *(= it's only a short time ago)* that they met!

How to use Ago

Use 'ago' to refer to a specific time in the past. It's typically used in informal and neutral contexts, but avoid using it in very formal writing or speeches.

Grammar pattern

ago + time expression (e.g. two days ago)

Memory hint

Think of 'a-go' like a race that happened in the past.

Related words

Collocations with Ago

• two years ago
• just ago
• long ago

Synonyms for Ago

• before
• earlier
• previously

Opposites of Ago

• future

Common mistakes with Ago

• Incorrectly using 'ago' with future events.
• Confusing 'ago' with 'since' when discussing past time.
• Omitting the time expression, e.g., saying 'I saw him ago.'

Frequently asked questions about Ago

What does Ago mean?

in the past; before now

What is the definition of Ago?

used in expressions of time with the simple past tense to show how far in the past something happened

How do you use Ago in a sentence?

two weeks/months/years ago

Can you give another example of Ago?

The letter came a few days ago.

What are synonyms for Ago?

Common alternatives include before, earlier, previously.

What is the opposite of Ago?

Opposite meanings include future.

What words go with Ago?

It commonly pairs with two years ago, just ago, long ago.

What are common mistakes when using Ago?

Incorrectly using 'ago' with future events. Confusing 'ago' with 'since' when discussing past time. Omitting the time expression, e.g., saying 'I saw him ago.'

How do you pronounce Ago?

US: /["/əˈɡəʊ/"]/, UK: /["/əˈɡəʊ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Ago?

Use 'ago' to refer to a specific time in the past. It's typically used in informal and neutral contexts, but avoid using it in very formal writing or speeches.

What CEFR level is Ago?

"Ago" is at A1 level on the CEFR scale.