Already, Yet, Still | English Grammar Lesson
Already, Yet, Still in English
English Grammar Lesson
Introduction
“Already”, “yet” and “still” are adverbs we use to add time references to our sentences. This can be particularly useful when we use the perfect verb tense when talking about a non-specific time in the past.
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Look at the difference in meaning in the following sentences when we add a time reference to it.
Already
Something happened before now.
Examples
“I don’t want to visit New York. I’ve already been there, and I want to go somewhere new for vacation.”
“I didn’t buy the new jeans, because I already went over my shopping budget for this month.”
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Notice the difference in meaning when “already” is and isn’t used.
“I’ve already spoken to her.” ↔ “I have spoken to her.”
↑ Here, using the word “already” implies that the conversation about a specific topic was relatively recent and relevant; implies a task checked off of a list.
Not using “already” leaves the speaking in some general time and general subject in the past. It could be an hour ago or a week ago, etc. It could have been on-topic or of a different topic. ↑
Yet
Something did not happen before now, but it may happen.
Examples
“You haven’t visited Paris yet? It’s beautiful!”
〉˜You definitely should visit Paris in the future!
“I haven’t started my new exercise routine yet, because I hurt my foot last week.”
〉˜I’ll start the exercise regimen after my foot heals.
Notice that “yet” is often used with the negative, because it’s something someone has not done in the past.
“I haven’t gone out yet.” ↔ “I haven’t gone out.”
↑ Here, using the word “yet” implies that the speaker will go out in the future.
Still
Something existed in the past + continues to happen now without change.
Examples
“No, I still haven’t visited Paris. But I hope to go next summer!”
“You still have to go pick up your last assignment at school.”
〉˜She had to pick it up before, and that hasn’t changed.
Practice | Already, Yet, Still
“I can’t believe he hasn’t called you yet!”
“Don’t tell them I’m here. I’m not ready yet.”
“Did you already pack your suitcase?”
“You already finished the test?! That was fast!”
“I still can’t believe how much he’s grown.”
“Do you still want to try that new restaurant this weekend?”
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