A2adverb1K

Already

UK /["/ɔːlˈredi/"]/US /["/ɔːlˈredi/"]/

Definition

before now or before a particular time in the past

In simple words: Before now; by this time.

Examples

  • ‘Lunch?’ ‘No thanks, I've already eaten.’
  • We got there early but Mike had already left.
  • By 2025, filming of the sequel was already under way.
  • Much of what he said I knew already.
  • Is it 10 o'clock already?
  • You're not leaving already, are you?
  • I'm already late.
  • The new company already has an excellent reputation.
  • There are far too many people already. We can't take any more.
  • Just stop already, no one feels sorry for you.

Usage notes

Use 'already' to indicate something has happened sooner than expected. It's appropriate in both spoken and written English, though more common in informal settings. Avoid using it in negative statements without context which can mislead timing.

Grammar pattern

already + past tense verb

Memory hint

Think of 'already' as 'all ready'—like when someone is prepared before the time expected.

Collocations

  • already completed
  • already know
  • already done

Synonyms

  • by now
  • previously
  • so far

Antonyms

  • not yet

Common mistakes

  • Using 'already' with future tense incorrectly.
  • Confusing 'already' with 'yet' when asking questions.
  • Placing 'already' at the end of a sentence incorrectly.