already

[ awl-red-ee ]

adverb

1. by this or that time; prior to or at some specified or implied time; previously:

   When we came in, we found they had already arrived.

2. now; so soon; so early:

   Is it noon already?

3. Informal. (used as an intensifier to express exasperation or impatience):

   Let's go already!

already

/ ɔːlˈrɛdɪ /

adverb

1. by or before a stated or implied time

   he is already here

2. at a time earlier than expected

   is it ten o'clock already?

Confusables Note

Although already and all ready are often indistinguishable in speech, the written forms have distinct meanings and uses. The phrase all ready means “entirely ready” or “prepared” ( I was all ready to leave on vacation ). Already means “previously” ( The plane had already left the airport ) or “so soon” ( Is it lunchtime already? ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of already¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English al redy “all ready”; what originally meant “completely ( all ) ready” and modified the subject ( The porter all ready was there ) was taken adverbially as modifying the predicate ( The porter already was there, meaning “from an earlier time”)

Example Sentences

Trump tends to favor disruption over constructive policymaking, but he has already made non-college pathways a signature education statement, and the idea has become popular with both parties.

From Los Angeles Times

He had already thrown for 156 yards and a touchdown in the second half while completing all 11 of his passes.

From Los Angeles Times

For Black professionals, who already navigate systemic barriers and entrenched inequities, this represents a direct assault on their workplace opportunities and dignity.

From Salon

Cox has been the reserve keeper and batter in the Test squad since the summer and had already been told he would make his debut in place of Smith.

From BBC

The fallout from the Black Lives Matter protests added impetus to the change that was already happening.

From BBC

Related Words

• before
• earlier
• once
• previously
• then