ALREADY

Definition of ALREADY

ALREADY Adverb

Already is an adverb that indicates that something has occurred or been completed before the present moment or a specified time. It expresses the idea that an action, event, or state is in place earlier than expected or prior to a given point in time.

As an Adverb (Prior to Now): As an adverb, already is used to denote that something has happened or been accomplished before the current time. For example, “The report is already finished” implies that the report was completed before the current moment.

As an Adverb (Earlier Than Expected): Already can also express that something has occurred sooner than anticipated. For instance, “She arrived at the airport already” suggests that her arrival happened earlier than expected.

Examples in Language: In language, already is used to indicate that an action or event has taken place before the current moment or a given time. For example, “The tickets are already sold out” shows that the tickets were sold out prior to the present time. Similarly, “He had already left by the time I arrived” denotes that his departure occurred before the speaker’s arrival.

Contextual Usage: Already is commonly used in various contexts to convey the timing of actions or events. It is often employed in conversations, writing, and reports to clarify that something has been completed or has occurred earlier than the present moment or a specific point in time.

Emphasis and Nuance: Using already can add emphasis to the timing of an event or action, highlighting that it occurred sooner than expected or was completed before a certain moment. This can affect the perceived urgency, importance, or sequence of events.

Variations in Usage: Already can be used in different sentence structures to convey various nuances: Affirmative Sentences: “She has already completed the assignment.” Negative Sentences: “He hasn’t already finished the project.” Questions: “Have they already left for the meeting?”

Impact on Communication: The use of already in communication can provide clarity about the timing of events and help manage expectations. It can also influence how information is perceived, such as indicating that certain actions are ahead of schedule or have been accomplished ahead of time.

Cultural and Social Perspectives: In different cultures and contexts, the concept of timeliness and punctuality can vary. The use of already might be perceived differently depending on cultural attitudes towards deadlines, efficiency, and the management of time.

In conclusion, already is an adverb that signifies that something has occurred or been completed before the present moment or a specified time. It denotes prior occurrence or completion and can add emphasis to the timing of actions or events. Understanding the use of already helps in conveying and interpreting the sequence and timing of events accurately.

Examples of ALREADY in a sentence

  • She had already completed the report before the deadline.
  • They already knew about the changes before the official announcement.
  • By the time he arrived, the meeting had already started.
  • The package was already on its way when they called to cancel the order.
  • She already had a plan in place to address the issue.
  • The team had already discussed the strategy in the previous session.
  • He was already aware of the new policies introduced at the company.
  • They already made reservations for the dinner before the invitation was sent.

Origin of ALREADY

The term already has an interesting etymological history, illustrating its development from Old English to contemporary usage.

Semantic Context: Already is used to denote that something has happened before the present time or earlier than expected. It often emphasizes that an action or condition is complete or in progress.

  • Etymological Roots: The term already originates from the Old English phrase “eall-redy,” which combines “eall” (all) and “redy” (ready). The phrase essentially meant “completely ready” or “fully prepared.”
  • Historical Development: By the late 14th century, the phrase “all redy” began to evolve into the single word already. This evolution reflects a shift in language usage towards more streamlined and efficient expressions.
  • Evolution of Usage: Throughout the 15th and 16th centuries, already solidified its role as an adverb meaning “by this time” or “previously.” Its usage expanded to encompass a variety of contexts, including time references and completed actions.
  • Modern Context: Today, already is widely used to indicate that something has happened or been done earlier than expected or earlier than another event. It is a versatile term applicable in both spoken and written English to convey timing and completion.

The term already illustrates how Old English expressions have evolved into contemporary adverbs, reflecting shifts in linguistic efficiency and temporal reference.

Synonyms

  • Previously
  • Earlier
  • Beforehand
  • Earlier on
  • Heretofore
  • Prior
  • So far
  • Formerly

Antonyms

  • Later
  • Eventually
  • Subsequently
  • Afterward
  • In the future
  • Eventually
  • Afterwards
  • Newly

Related

  • Time
  • Prioritize
  • Advance
  • Preceding
  • Preparation
  • Timing
  • Premature
  • Earlier stage

🌐 🇬🇧 ALREADY in other languages

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