already
Translation
already
Examples
I have already finished my homework.
I have already finished my homework.
Is it 10 o'clock already?
Is it 10 o'clock already?
Grammar Patterns
((auxiliary verb)) + already + ((main verb)) before now or before a particular time He has already left.
((at the end of a question)) to show surprise Are you leaving already?
Similar Words
Synonyms: previously, by now; Antonyms: not yet, still
Etymology
From Middle English 'al redy', meaning 'all ready' or 'completely prepared'. It shifted to mean 'before now' or 'sooner than expected'.
Memory Tips
Think 'all ready'. If something is 'all ready', it means it has been done before now.