already (A2)

adverb

Pronunciation: /ɔːlˈrɛdi/

Definition

Before or at this time; by this time.

Examples

• She has already finished her homework.

• Are you already leaving?

• We had already eaten when they arrived.

How to Use already

already + past participle (collocation)

Indicates an action was completed before a specific time. — "They have already arrived."

already + present tense verb (collocation)

Indicates a surprising or unexpected present state. — "He is already tired."

already + past tense verb (collocation)

Indicates an action was completed before another past action or time. — "She already left when I called."

Synonyms of already

Words with a similar meaning to already:

• before
• earlier
• previously
• formerly

Antonyms of already

Words with the opposite meaning to already:

• not yet
• still

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