i already finished my homework adverb

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• An adverbial gives us extra information about the time, place or the manner of an action.
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• Adverbial Phrases
• Adverbial Clauses

As Adverbial Phrases

As adverbial clauses.

• Time: when / while / after / before / as soon as / by the time / since / until / as / as long as etc.
• Reason: because / since / as / seeing that / inasmuch as / now that / on the grounds that
• Purpose: so that / in order that / lest / in case / for the purpose that / for fear that
• Contrast: although / though / even though / whereas / notwithstanding / much as
• Comparison: as if / as though
• Condition: if / provided(ing) (that) / so long as / unless / only if / even if / on condition that

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Adverb "already"

I have got a question about the adverb "already". Where should we put it in the sentence? Is "already" put after a subject and auxiliary verb but before predicate verb in the sentence? May we also put "alredy" at the end of the one?

For example: - He has already finished his homework - He has finished his work already - Would it be correct?

And how is it used with the Present Perfect Progressive

"He has been already sitting there for two hours" or "He has been sitting there fot two hours already" Which sentence will be correct?

"has been" it is auxiliary verb, right?

Could you point out any other mistakes if i did.

• adverb-position

• To make mistakes is correct. –  V.V. Commented Apr 21, 2016 at 10:25

"Correct/Incorrect", with parenthetical notes showing connotations.

He has already finished his homework

(He's quick.)

He has finished his work already

(He's quicker than expected.)

He has been sitting there for two hours already

(He's either determined, or very comfortable.)

He has been already sitting there for two hours

Correction:

He has already been sitting there for two hours

(He's been left waiting too long.)

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Adverbs of Time : just, now, already -School and Studying

Adverbs of time: just, now, already -school and studying.

In this full tutorial for beginners’ learners are going to learn how to use adverbs of time- just, now, already and match the words with each definition.

Learning experiences

Show pictures about school and studying and have students tell what they see in the pictures

Teacher reads the passage as students listen and fill in the blanks and answer the questions.

 I am Rin and my first day of the school-year was really great. My classmates, Tom, and Audrie were sitting just behind me in biology class, and Tom was sitting right next to me in math. We had a lot of fun. But we have to start studying a lot too. Now, I am finishing a history project that I was doing in the summer.

I am Rin and my first day of the school-year was really ________________. My classmates, Tom, and Audrie were sitting just _____________me in biology class, and Tom was sitting right next to me in math. We had _______________ fun. But we have to start studying a lot too. Now, I am finishing a history project that I was doing in the ____________.

  Answer the questions.

College                  to succeed in an examination

Discuss that adverb of time “ Just ” is usually used with Present Perfect Tense meaning “a short while ago”.

Adverbs of time “ Already ” indicate that something has happened earlier (or earlier than expected).

An adverb of time “Now” means that the action is happening at the moment of speaking or at present.

a. now                            b. already             c. just

3. I’ve just seen Susan coming out of the cinema.

a. just                               b. now                  c. already

Give three reasons.

For more readings

If you have any questions or suggestions about  The Adverbs of Time: just, now, already -School and Studying ,  please feel free to leave a comment below or send us a message using our contact page

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The Right Way to Use 'Already' and 'Yet' in English

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The words  already  and  yet  are common words in English that generally refer to an event that has or has not happened before another event in the past or present:

• She hasn't finished her assignment yet.

The event has not been completed up to the present moment in time.

• Jennifer had already eaten by the time he arrived.

The event occurred before another event took place.

Present Perfect

Both already and yet refer to activities that have or haven't occurred before the present moment in time. In both cases, the adverb  recently  could be substituted with the same meaning:

• I have already finished my lunch.

I've recently finished my lunch.

• Have you seen Tom yet?

Have you seen Tom recently?

• They haven't visited Rome yet.

They haven't visited Rome recently.

Referring to a Past Event

Already is used to indicate that something that happened before the moment of speaking. However, it refers to something that affects the present moment in time. Let's take a look at a few examples:

• I have already finished the report.

This sentence could be used to express the idea that I finished the report and it is ready to read now.

• She has already seen that film.

This sentence might express that the woman saw the film in the past, so she has no desire in the present moment to see the film.

• They have already eaten.

This sentence would probably be used to state that they are no longer hungry.

The key to using already is to remember that an action that has happened in the past — often in the recent past — affects the present moment or a decision about the present moment in time. Therefore, already  and  yet  are used with the present perfect tense.

Sentence Placement

Already is placed between the auxiliary verb have  and the participle form of the verb. It is used in the positive form and should not be used in the negative:

Subject + have / has + already + past participle + objects

• I have already seen that film.
• Mary has already been to Seattle.

Incorrect usage:

• I have seen already that film.

Already is generally not used in the question form. However, when expressing surprise in a rhetorical question it is sometimes used in informal conversations and added to the end of the sentence:

• Have you eaten already?!
• Have you finished already?!

Asking Questions

Yet is used to check whether something has occurred up to the present moment:

• Have you seen that film yet?
• Has Tim done his homework yet?

Yet  is generally used to ask about something closer to the present moment. Yet is often used when someone expects something to have occurred before the moment of speaking:

• Have you finished that report yet?

 In this case, a colleague expects the report to be finished soon.

Question Placement

Yet is always placed at the end of a question. Notice that yet is not used with question words as questions with yet are yes/no questions:

Have + subject + past participle + objects + yet + ?

• Has she bought a new car yet?

Negative Form

Yet is also used in the negative to express that something that is expected has not yet happened. In this case, yet is placed at the end of the sentence.

Subject + have not / has not + past participle + objects + yet

• She hasn't finished the report yet.
• Doug and Tom haven't telephoned yet.

With the Past Perfect

Already can also be used with the past perfect to express that something had happened before something else:

• She had already eaten when he arrived.
• Jackson had already done his homework when he was asked for help.

With the Future Perfect

Already is also used with the future perfect to express that something will have been completed before something else occurs:

• She will have already finished the paperwork before the meeting.
• Frank will have already prepared the report by the time the boss asks for it.

Coordinating Conjunction

Finally,  yet  can also be used as a coordinating conjunction with the same meaning as  but  to connect two simple sentences into one. Place  yet  after a comma to introduce a dependent clause:

• They'd like to go to that new restaurant, yet they can't get a reservation.
•  He'd already bought tickets to the play, yet he wasn't able to attend the performance.
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What's the Difference Between ' All Ready ' and ' Already '?

In this blog post we look at when to use all ready and when to use already .

' All Ready ' or ' Already '?

The phrases “all ready” and “already” are homonyms, meaning they sound the same.  Their meanings however are very different.

"All ready" means that everyone or everything is prepared or ready. It is used to describe a group or collection that is fully prepared or ready for something. For example: "We are all ready to leave for the concert."

"Already" is an adverb that means "prior to a specified or implied time." It is used to describe something that has happened or is in a state of completion before the time being considered. For example: "I have already eaten dinner, so I am not hungry."

In summary, "all ready" describes a state of readiness, while "already" describes an event that has happened before the present time.

Here are some examples to explain the differences:

"All ready" examples:

"Are you all ready for the big game tomorrow?" (Asking if the person is prepared for the game)

"We need to make sure that everyone is all ready before we leave for the trip." (Ensuring that the group is prepared for the trip)

"The team is all ready to tackle the new project." (The team is prepared to start the project)

"Already" is an adverb that means "prior to a specified or implied time." It is used to describe something that has happened or is in a state of completion before the time being considered. For example:

"Already" examples:

"I have already finished my homework, so I can watch TV now." (The action of finishing homework has been completed before the present time)

"She has already eaten, so she won't be joining us for dinner." (The action of eating has been completed before the present time)

"We already knew about the change in plans, so it wasn't a surprise to us." (The knowledge of the change in plans was acquired before the present time)

Examples of All Ready in a Sentence

"Are you all ready for the big presentation tomorrow?"

"We need to make sure that everyone is all ready before we leave for the concert."

"The team is all ready to tackle the new project."

"I'm all ready for bed, I just need to brush my teeth."

"The party is all ready to start, we just need to wait for the guest of honor to arrive."

"The kids are all ready for their first day of school."

"The wedding party is all ready to go down the aisle."

"Are you guys all ready for the road trip?"

"I've packed everything and I'm all ready to leave for the airport."

"The house is all ready for the holidays, with decorations up and presents wrapped."

Examples of Already in a Sentence

"I have already finished my homework, so I can watch TV now."

"She has already eaten, so she won't be joining us for dinner."

"We already knew about the change in plans, so it wasn't a surprise to us."

"He has already left for work, so he won't be able to attend the meeting."

"I've already seen that movie, so I'm not interested in watching it again."

"She has already passed the test, so she doesn't need to worry about it anymore."

"We've already finished the project, so there's no need to rush."

"The store has already closed for the day, so we'll have to come back tomorrow."

"I've already booked my tickets for the concert, have you?"

"The bus has already left, so we'll have to wait for the next one."

Similar Questions

'affect' or 'effect', 'bare with me' or 'bear with me', 'dreamed' or 'dreamt'.

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8.7 The present perfect with Already, Yet, Still and Just Copy

The words “already,” “yet,” “still,” and “just” are all adverbs commonly used in English to indicate different aspects of time and the completion of actions. Here’s a breakdown of their usages:

• “I have already finished my homework.” (Position: Between the auxiliary verb “have” and the main verb “finished.”)
• “She has already left for work.” (Position: Between the auxiliary verb “has” and the main verb “left.”)
• “Has he finished his assignment yet?” (Position: At the end of the question, after the main verb “finished.”)
• “I haven’t eaten lunch yet.” (Position: After the auxiliary verb “have” and before the main verb “eaten.”)
• I still have not received a response to my email.
• She still has not finished reading the book
• “I have just finished my meal.” (Position: Before the main verb “finished.”)
• “She has just arrived at the airport.” (Position: Between the auxiliary verb “has” and the main verb “arrived.”)

Remember that the specific positions of these words may vary depending on the sentence structure and the emphasis you want to convey.

Reorganize the following sentences

• He / meet / his friend. (just) 
• You / not drink / your glass of Coke. (yet) 
• I / make / my bed. (already)
• We / not arrive. (yet) We / leave / the motorway. (just)
• The director / talk / to him. (already)
• I / write / the e-mail you asked me. (just)
• She / not buy / the flat. (yet) But she wants to buy it soon.
• He / be / really lucky. (just) He / win / the lottery. (just)
• We / hear / the news. (already) It’s horrible.
• Paul / not pay / for the dinner. (yet)

Already, Ever, Yet

1. People have many goals in life. What are some goals you have already accomplished?

2. What are some goals you want to accomplish, but haven’t accomplished yet?

3. Have you ever done something that you were really proud of?

4. Have you ever done something really nice for someone else?

5. Think of some more have you ever questions to ask your partner.

6. What are some places you have already been to?

7. Where are some places you haven’t been to yet that you plan to go to some day?

8. Is there something you are working on now, but haven’t finished yet?

9. What is an goal your country is working towards? What have they already done to reach that goal? What haven’t they done yet?

10. Why don’t we have flying cars yet?

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Adverbs: Still – Yet – Already – Just

Published by My Lingua Academy on 27 Sep 2021 27 Sep 2021

In today’s lesson, we are going to look at the meaning and use of the adverbs: still, yet, already and just .

The adverb still is used to say that the action or situation is continuing. It normally goes with the verb, in the middle of the sentence.

• At 10 o’clock last night, the bakery was still working.
• Are you still looking for an apartment? I’m renting one.
• Can you believe that Brian still lives with his parents?

Although still goes with the verb, in spoken English, you will often hear it at the end of a sentence.

• Do you live at the same address still? (instead of ‘Do you still live at the same address?’)

Yet is an adverb meaning ‘until now’. Since it often refers to the time that began in the past and is continuing in the present, we usually use it in the Present Perfect negative and interrogative sentences. It always occupies the end position in a sentence.

• Have you finished your homework yet ?
• I haven’t finished my homework yet.
• Have you got the mail yet ?
• I haven’t got the mail yet .

Remember that you can never use yet in statements. We use already instead of yet in affirmative sentences.

• She has already packed her bag. ( She has packed her bag yet. )

Compare still and yet :

• It’s been snowing all night, and it’s still snowing.
• Although it’s been snowing all night, it hasn’t stopped snowing yet.

The adverb already is used to say that something happened sooner than expected. It usually goes with the Present Perfect and Past Perfect Tenses. It takes the position between the auxiliary and the main verb in the sentence.

• Can it be that Darren has already left? He was here a minute ago.
• They had already picked up the kids from school before they came here.
• Peter asked Bob to come with him to the cinema, but he’d already seen the film.
• I’m afraid that I’ve already paid all my bills and have very little money left.

The adverb just refers to the time which was a very short time ago or at the present moment.

• I’ve just seen a postman going down the street (a very short time ago)
• I just can’t believe that uncle Patrick died. (at the present moment)
• Garry arrived at the train station just in time to catch the train.
• Mum’s just finished cooking lunch. Shall we set the table?

Expressions with just

Just about  

Meaning: almost.

I’ve just about finished my report. 

Just like that

Meaning: all of a sudden, unexpectedly.

Can you believe that he moved to Australia, just like that?

Just as well

Meaning: It is a good/lucky thing that…

It’s just as well we brought the umbrellas with us, as it seems like rain.

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Adverbs: About to, Already, Just, Still, Yet

In this article, we will discuss adverbs that add information about time . The adverbs about to, already, just, still, yet are used to describe things that are going on, are expected or close to the present time.

Already, Just, Yet, Still

We use ‘ be about to do something ’ to mean ‘ be going to do something very soon ’.

• Ssshhh…! The movie is about to start.
• They were about to complain when their meal finally arrived.

The structure is:

be + about to + base verb

We use ‘ already ’ to say that something happened early , or earlier than we expected .

• I’ve already finished my homework.
• Really? That was quick!
• Would you like something to eat?
• No, thanks.  We’ve already had lunch.
• Is it ten o’clock already ?  I can’t believe it!

Here, ‘ just ’ means ‘ a short time ago ’.

• I’ve just had breakfast.
• Has he just arrived?

We use ‘ yet ’ to talk about things we expect to happen .

• I haven’t seen that movie yet .
• Have you cleaned your teeth yet ?
• Is dinner ready yet ?

We use ‘ still ’ to talk about things which have not happened or finished as we expected .

• I’ve been here for twenty minutes but the bus still hasn’t come.
• You still haven’t washed the dishes.
• Is it still raining?

See how to use these adverbs in this video:

Adverbs of place and movement

Position of adverbs in a sentence

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All Ready vs. Already – Meaning, Definition & Spelling

| Candace Osmond

Candace Osmond

Candace Osmond studied Advanced Writing & Editing Essentials at MHC. She’s been an International and USA TODAY Bestselling Author for over a decade. And she’s worked as an Editor for several mid-sized publications. Candace has a keen eye for content editing and a high degree of expertise in Fiction.

Already and all ready are two words/phrases I see mixed up all the time. When I used to edit manuscripts for new authors, it was actually expected in every book I opened. So, why do we get so easily confused between them? Good question, and I’m going to break it all out for you so you never have to get them crossed again.

All Ready vs. Already

No, they’re not two versions of the same word, although they sound the same when spoken. You would use all ready when talking about something that’s all done or all complete. And you’d use the word already if you’re referencing something that’s happened before.

Already Meaning

Now, the adverb already is used when something has previously happened or just recently taken place. If I spend three hours making supper for my family and my kid throws a tantrum and demands another dish, I’d probably look at them and say, “But I already made spaghetti, so that’s what we’re having.”

All Ready Meaning

All ready means complete; something is finished and prepared to an end. Like when you’re doing your hair and makeup to go out on a date, and you finish, you could say, “I’m all ready!”

Is All Ready One Word?

Not if you mean the phrase to describe something that is ready. But if you mean the adverb already, then yes, it’s one word.

Already and All Ready Synonyms

• Previously done
• Ready to go

How to Use All Ready in a Sentence

• Are you all ready to go on the trip? We must leave this house in ten minutes, or we’ll miss the plane.
• I think we’re all ready for the presentation now.
• My son’s soccer team is all ready for the big game tomorrow. They’ve been practicing for weeks!
• Are the kids all ready for bed? It’s been a long day.
• I’m all ready for the exam tomorrow.
• Is everyone all ready for the meeting? We need to start in a few minutes.
• We’ve got the music, the food, and the drinks, so I think the party is all ready to go.
• The company is all ready to launch the new product next week.
• I’m all ready for the concert tonight. I’m excited to watch my daughter perform her first piano recital.

How to Use Already in a Sentence

• I have already finished my homework, so I can now relax for the rest of the evening.
• Mom has already left for work, so you won’t be able to see her until later.
• No, you’ve already eaten breakfast, so you don’t need anything else right now.
• They’ve already decided on a date for the party; they can’t change it now.
• I already told you; I’m not interested in buying that product, so stop sending me emails.
• He already knows the answer to the question, so there’s no need to explain it again.
• I can’t believe it’s already time for lunch.
• The movie has already started, so we must hurry if we don’t want to miss any of it.
• I’ve already read that book, so I don’t need to borrow it from the library again.

Are You All Ready to Use the Right Term?

The trick to remembering the difference is to add the ‘are’ to all ready . All are ready clearly shows what the phrase means, so you don’t get it mixed up with already. That’s what I do. Anyway, I hope it helps you!

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Just and Already: How to Use Already and Just Correctly

When it comes to using English grammar correctly, the difference between “just” and “already” can be a bit confusing. These two words are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings that can affect the overall meaning of a sentence. In this article, we will explore the differences between “just” and “already” and provide examples of how to use them correctly.

Just and Already

In English, we use ‘just’ and ‘already’ to talk about actions that have happened in the recent past. These adverbs are commonly used with the present perfect tense. The present perfect tense is formed by using the auxiliary verb ‘have’ or ‘has’ with the past participle of the main verb.

‘Just’ means that something has happened a short time ago. It is often used with the present perfect to describe an action that has happened very recently. For example, “I have just finished my homework.” In this sentence, ‘just’ indicates that the speaker has finished their homework very recently.

‘Already’ means that something has happened before the expected time. It is often used with the present perfect to describe an action that has happened earlier than expected. For example, “I have already finished my homework.” In this sentence, ‘already’ indicates that the speaker has finished their homework earlier than expected.

It is important to note that the use of ‘just’ and ‘already’ can change the meaning of a sentence. For example, “I have finished my homework” is a simple sentence that just states the fact that the speaker has finished their homework. However, if we add ‘just’ or ‘already’ to this sentence, it changes the meaning. “I have just finished my homework” means that the speaker has finished their homework very recently. “I have already finished my homework” means that the speaker has finished their homework earlier than expected.

Usage of ‘Just’ in English

‘just’ in present perfect tense.

In the present perfect tense, ‘just’ is used to describe an action that has happened very recently. It is often used with the words ‘have’ or ‘has’. For example, “I have just finished my homework.” This sentence means that the speaker has finished their homework only a short time ago.

‘Just’ in Past Simple Tense

In the past simple tense, ‘just’ is used to describe an action that happened a short time ago. It is often used with the word ‘did’. For example, “I just saw her at the store.” This sentence means that the speaker saw the person only a short time ago.

‘Just’ in Questions and Negative Statements

In questions and negative statements, ‘just’ is used to ask or state whether an action has happened very recently. For example, “Have you just arrived?” This question means that the speaker is asking whether the person has arrived only a short time ago. In a negative statement, ‘just’ is used to say that an action has not happened very recently. For example, “I haven’t just eaten breakfast .” This statement means that the speaker did not eat breakfast only a short time ago.

Usage of ‘Already’ in English

‘already’ in present perfect tense.

In the present perfect tense, ‘already’ is often used to indicate that an action has been completed before the present moment. For example, “I have already finished my homework” means that the speaker finished their homework before the present moment. Here are a few more examples:

• We have already booked our tickets for the concert.
• Has she already eaten breakfast?
• They haven’t already left, have they?

‘Already’ in Past Simple Tense

In the past simple tense, ‘already’ is used to indicate that something happened earlier than expected. For example, “I already saw that movie” means that the speaker saw the movie earlier than expected. Here are a few more examples:

• She already knew the answer to the question.
• He had already left by the time we arrived.
• They already finished the project last week.

‘Already’ in Questions and Negative Statements

In questions and negative statements, ‘already’ is often used to express surprise or disbelief. For example, “You haven’t finished your homework already?” expresses surprise that the homework may have been completed earlier than expected. Here are a few more examples:

• Has he already left for the airport?
• I can’t believe she already finished the book.
• They haven’t already sold the house, have they?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between ‘just’ and ‘already’ in the English language?

‘Just’ means ‘a short time ago’ or ‘recently,’ while ‘already’ means ‘before now’ or ‘so soon.’ The difference between ‘just’ and ‘already’ is that ‘just’ refers to a recent past event, whereas ‘already’ refers to an event that occurred before the present time.

How can I use ‘already’ in a sentence correctly?

‘Already’ is often used with the present perfect tense to indicate that an action has been completed before the present time. For example, “I have already eaten breakfast.” It can also be used with the past simple tense to indicate that something happened sooner than expected. For example, “I already finished my homework.”

When should I use ‘just’ in a sentence?

‘Just’ is used to indicate that something has happened a short time ago or recently. It is often used in the present perfect tense to describe an action that has just been completed. For example, “I have just finished my work.” It can also be used in the past simple tense to describe an action that happened a short time ago. For example, “I just saw a movie.”

What is the meaning of ‘just yet’?

‘Just yet’ is a phrase that is used to indicate that something has not happened, but it might happen soon. For example, “I haven’t finished my work just yet, but I will soon.”

Can you explain the use of ‘just’, ‘already’, and ‘yet’ in the present perfect tense?

‘Just’ is used to describe an action that has happened a short time ago or recently. ‘Already’ is used to describe an action that has been completed before the present time. ‘Yet’ is used to indicate that an action has not happened, but it will happen in the future. In the present perfect tense, ‘just’ and ‘already’ are used to describe completed actions, while ‘yet’ is used to describe actions that have not been completed. For example, “I have just finished my work, but I haven’t finished my homework yet.”

Last Updated on November 14, 2023

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Still – Yet – Already

Still , yet and already are adverbs of time.

Let’s look at the different meanings and uses of each adverb.

Still can refer to a situation that continues because it hasn’t finished or stopped. Sometimes this situation has continued longer than expected or the situation can be surprising. Still can refer to something that is ongoing.

Example sentences using STILL:

• It is still (It continues right now. It hasn’t stopped)
• I still live in London. (Maybe you expected me to be living somewhere else now)
• They have been married for 30 years and are still in love. (Their love continues until now)
• I can’t go right now because I am still very busy at work. (I haven’t finished work. I am here longer than expected.)
• Will you still love me when I’m old? (Will you continue to love me?)

Still can refer to an action that was not expected because of something else. It happened despite what has just been said.

• He was sick but he still went to work. (It was not expected because he could make other people sick at work)
• I studied a lot though I still didn’t pass the test. (I didn’t expect to fail it)

Position of STILL in a sentence

Still is used before a verb or adjective

Be + still + adjective

• The baby is still asleep .
• I’m still tired .

Still + main verb

• I still want to go.
• Does he still live with his parents?

Auxiliary + still + main verb

If the verb has two parts, still goes in the middle between the auxiliary and the verb.

• We are still trying to finish the assignment.
• Are you still waiting for him?

BUT if the sentence is negative, still goes before the negative auxiliary verb .

• He still hasn’t quit his job despite complaining about it every day.
• My phone still isn’t working after I dropped it.

Yet is used in questions and negative sentences. Yet = now, up to the time of speaking

When YET is used in a question, it is to ask if something (expected) has happened . Example questions using YET:

• Have the test results arrived yet ? (I expect that they have arrived, I am asking to confirm.)
• We have to go. Are you ready yet ? (I expect that you are ready.)
• Have you had lunch yet ? (Have you had lunch up to now?)

Yet can refer to an action that is expected (but has not happened). Notice how in this case YET is used at the end of negative sentences.

Example sentences using YET:

• I haven’t done my homework yet .
• It’s almost midday and Steve hasn’t woken up yet .
• My boss hasn’t paid me yet .

Position of YET in a sentence

Verb + (object) + yet

• She hasn’t finished yet . (verb + yet)
• She hasn’t finished her meal yet . (verb + object + yet)
• Have you been to Spain yet ?

Adjective + yet

• Fortunately, they aren’t bored yet .
• Is your friend ready yet ?

You can see that YET mostly comes at the end of sentence or question. But there is an exception:

YET is sometimes used in affirmative sentences in formal English though it is not common to hear it. In this case, it is not placed at the end of the sentence but after the verb to be. We have included this use in case you come across it.

• We are yet to find a solution.

Already is used in affirmative sentences , mostly in a perfect tense* or present simple tense. Already can refer to an action that has happened (sooner than expected). Already can be used to say that something was completed before something else.

* You may hear/read already used in the Past Simple tense by American English speakers. (More about this difference later)

Example sentences using ALREADY:

• I have just finished lunch but I’m already hungry again. (I didn’t expect to be hungry so soon)
• I think Simon already knows about the surprise party.
• We’ve already seen that movie. Let’s watch another one.
• There are already fifty people lined up outside the door.

Position of ALREADY in a sentence

Already is used before a verb or adjective.

Be + already

• After only 15 minutes, he is already frustrated.
• We are already at the restaurant.

In spoken English, already can be at the end of a sentence for greater emphasis (or to show surprise)

• Has he finished? (No surprise)
• Has he finished already ? (I’m surprised)

Now, following word order for YET depends on whether American English or British English is used.

already + main verb

In American English, the word order is already + main verb. This main verb is in the Past simple tense .

• I already ate .
• He already finished the task.

auxiliary verb + already + verb

In British English, the word order is auxiliary verb + already + verb. This verb is a past participle in a Perfect tense .

• I have already eaten .
• He has already finished the task.

Let’s look at this difference a little more…

American English vs. British English

While Yet and Already have the same meaning in American English and British English, you should know that they can be used with different tenses.

In American English , the Past Simple tense is preferred. In British English , the Present Perfect tense is preferred.

• Did the letter arrive yet ? (American English)
• Has the letter arrived yet ? (British English)
• Did you already eat your sandwich? (American English)
• Have you already eaten your sandwich? (British English)

Still – Yet – Already

Compare these adverbs in three similar sentences:

• The baby is still asleep.
• The baby is already asleep. (I expected the baby to be awake, the baby fell asleep sooner than I expected)
• The baby isn’t asleep yet . (The baby continues to be awake right now)

Still = continues longer than expected. Already = sooner than expected. Yet = it is expected but has not happened.

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Adverb Clauses in English

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Adverb clauses are important elements of English grammar and can help you express yourself in a more precise way. They are useful for expressing time, place, condition, contrast, concession, purpose, and cause.

In this reference, we'll cover what an adverb clause is, provide adverb clause examples, learn how to identify an adverb clause, and find a list of adverb clauses to help avoid common mistakes while using them.

What is an Adverb Clause

Adverb clause definition: "a group of words used to modify a verb, another adverb, or an adjective." It typically includes a subject and a verb, and it is often preceded by a subordinating conjunction such as "after," "although," "because," "if," "since," "while," or “when.”

Adverb clauses are used to provide additional information about a sentence and can help add emphasis, clarity, and specificity.

For example, the sentence "I went to the store" can be modified with an adverb clause to make it more descriptive: "I went to the store after I finished my homework." In this sentence, the adverb clause "after I finished my homework" modifies the verb "went" to provide additional information about when the action took place.

Adverb clauses can also provide additional information about adjectives and adverbs. For example, the sentence "I am very happy" can be modified with an adverb clause to make it more descriptive: "I am very happy since I got the job." In this sentence, the adverb clause "since I got the job" modifies the adjective "happy" to provide additional information about why the person is feeling this way.

Adverb Clause Examples

Here are some examples of adverb clauses:

• After I finished work, I went to the store.
• Although the project was difficult, I still managed to finish it on time.
• Because I was already late, I had to take a taxi to the airport.
• If I don't get enough sleep, I'm not able to concentrate the next day.
• Since I got the job, I have been very happy.
• While I was studying, my cat kept me company.

As you can see, adverb clauses are used to provide additional information about verbs, adjectives, and adverbs. They can help make sentences more descriptive and interesting.

How to Identify an Adverb Clause

Adverb clauses can be identified by looking for a subordinating conjunction at the beginning of the clause. The subordinating conjunction will typically be followed by a subject and a verb.

Here are some common subordinating conjunctions :

For example, in the sentence "After I finished my homework, I went to the store," the subordinating conjunction "after" is followed by the subject "I" and the verb "finished," indicating that the clause is an adverb clause.

In addition, adverb clauses can often be identified by their function in a sentence. They typically provide additional information about how, when, where, or why an action occurs. So, if a clause provides more information about an action, it is likely to be an adverb clause.

Adverb Clause List

Here is a list of 10 example adverb clauses that you can use:

• After I finished my homework
• Although the project was difficult
• Because I was running late
• If I don't get enough sleep
• Since I got the job
• While I was studying
• Whenever I need help
• As soon as I can
• Wherever I go
• No matter what happens

Using Adverbial Clause in Sentences

Adverb clauses are used to provide additional information about a sentence, and they can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some tips for using adverb clauses in sentences:

• Place the adverb clause at the beginning or end of the sentence. Placing the adverb clause at the beginning of the sentence can help add emphasis while placing it at the end of the sentence can help add clarity.
• Use the correct punctuation. If the adverb clause comes before the main clause, use a comma after it. If the adverb clause comes after the main clause, it should not be followed by a comma.
• Keep the adverb clause as concise as possible. Too many unnecessary words can make a sentence difficult to read.

For example, the sentence "After I finished my homework, I went to the store" makes use of an adverb clause to provide additional information about the action. The adverb clause (after I finished my homework) is at the beginning of the sentence and followed by a comma, making it clear that it is being used to modify the verb “went.”

However, too many words would make this same sentence confusing. For example, "After I had completed the task of doing my homework, I proceeded to go to the store" is an unnecessarily long version of the same sentence.

Common Mistakes

When using adverb clauses, it's important to avoid common mistakes. Here are some tips for avoiding mistakes:

• Make sure to use the correct subordinating conjunction. For example, if you are trying to indicate that something happened after something else happened, you should use the subordinating conjunction "after," not "before."
• Avoid using too many adverbs in one sentence. Too many adverbs can make a sentence difficult to read.
• Make sure to use the correct verb tense. If your main clause is in the present tense , the adverb clause should also be in the present tense.

For example, the sentence "After I finished my homework, I went to the store" is correct because both the main clause ("I went to the store") and the adverb clause ("after I finished my homework") are in the past tense .

There are also essential and non-essential adverb clauses to think about.  Essential adverb clauses provide additional information that is necessary for the sentence to make sense. Non-essential adverb clauses provide additional information, but are not needed for the sentence to make sense.

Adverb clauses are an important part of English grammar and can help you express yourself in a more precise way. Adverb clauses are groups of words which modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, and it typically includes a subject and a verb, and is often preceded by a subordinating conjunction such as "after," "although," "because," "if," "since," "while," or “when.”

Adverb clauses can be used to provide additional information about a sentence and can help add emphasis, clarity, and specificity. When using adverb clauses, it's important to avoid common mistakes such as using the wrong subordinating conjunction or verb tense.

Over time, you will learn to fluently include adverbial clauses into your own sentences and sound like a proper native speaker!

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"Finish" or "finished" after the "always" adverb and "every day" in the end

The below simple test makes confuses me and the answer key for this test says the correct answer is " finished ". Why " finish " is not the correct one? The first part of the sentence refers to the past time, but when I see the " always " adverb that mentions the action happens repeatedly (finished his work) and also " every day " comes at the end of the sentence; I guess " finish " is the best choice, and maybe the answer key mistakes, unsure about it and I wonder to learn about this simple grammar that I don't know!

Is it usual to use the past form of a verb after " always " while " every day " comes at the end?

You could tell the time by him because he always ....... work at exactly the same time every day. (a) ends (b) ended (c) finish (d) finished

• 1 The modal auxiliary verb "could" is past tense meaning that the whole sentence refers to past time. The preterite lexical verb "finished" is thus correct. –  BillJ Commented Feb 23, 2023 at 19:49

The clause needs to have a conjugated verb, so the answer could only be "he finishes " or "he finished ". "He finish" is not correctly conjugated.

Only finished is in the answer key, so it must be the right one!

But let's look at why "he finishes " is not correct. The first part of the sentence ( You could tell... ) tells us that this is something that happened in the past. This alone should suggest that the second part of the sentence should be in the past tense too.

What about the word always ? The word always actually does not make a difference here: you can refer to something that always happened in the past. Saying "he finishes at exactly the same time" would mean that he still does it. Maybe he still does, but that doesn't matter; what matters is that he did in the past, at the time that you could tell .

• Helpful description @stangdon, thanks. –  Masoud Moghaddam Commented Feb 23, 2023 at 20:24

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Have/Haven't you finished your homework yet/already?

• Thread starter sitifan
• Start date Oct 8, 2021

Senior Member

• Oct 8, 2021

1. Have you finished your homework yet? 2. Have you finished your homework already? 3. Haven't you finished your homework yet? 4. Haven't you finished your homework already? Are the above interrogative sentences all grammatically correct?  

They are all potentially correct, depending on the implications and the context.  

sitifan said: 1. Have you finished your homework yet? 2. Have you finished your homework already? 3. Haven't you finished your homework yet? 4. Haven't you finished your homework already? Are the above interrogative sentences all grammatically correct? Click to expand...

Keith Bradford

No.3 is the normal question expressing suprise that the homework is taking too long. No.4 is the same question as 3, put by an American of Jewish origin (to my ear).  

"Haven't you finished your homework already?" might be an alternative to "Didn't you finish your homework already?," where the expected answer is "yes" and the speaker is befuddled by the fact that the student is acting as if it weren't finished.  

#4 doesn't work for me.  

sitifan said: 1. Have you finished your homework yet? 2. Have you finished your homework already? 3. Haven't you finished your homework yet? 4. Haven't you finished your homework already? Click to expand...

Moderator Emeritus

sitifan said: Is the adverb "already" used in questions that expect or encourage the answer "yes"? Click to expand...

DonnyB said: In (2), it expresses surprise that the person apparently has: in (4), it doesn't work in standard English. Click to expand...

sitifan said: 5. Do you have any questions? 6. Do you have some questions? 7. Don't you have any questions? 8. Don't you have some questions? In (8), does it work in standard English? Click to expand...

• Oct 9, 2021